Zetia

Zetia (Ezetimibe)

Zetia

Ezetimibe tablet

What is it used for?

EZETIMIBE blocks the absorption of cholesterol from the stomach. It can help to lower blood cholesterol for patients who are at the risk of getting a heart disease or a stroke. It is only for the patients whose cholesterol level is not controlled by diet.

What should I discuss with my physician prior to taking this medicine?

Please do tell your physician if you have any of the following conditions:

• liver diseases
• an unusual or allergic reaction to ezetimibe, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How is this medicine should be taken?

Take it orally accompanied with a glass of water. This medicine can be taken with or without food. Your doses should be taken at the regular intervals. You should never take this medicine more often than prescribed.

Contact your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine by children. Special care might be necessary.

Overdosage: If you suspect an overdosage, get in touch with the nearest poison control center or emergency room immediately.

NOTE: This medicine is only intended for your use. You should never share it with the others.

What to do if I missed a dose?

If you missed a dose, it should be taken as soon as possible. If the time has almost come for the next dose, only that one should be taken. You should never take double or extra doses; a single doze is sufficient for the purposes.

What are the possible interactions with the other medicine/food/etc?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• fenofibrate
• gemfibrozil

This medicine may also interact with the following:

• antacids
• cyclosporine
• herbal medicines like red yeast rice
• other medicines to lower cholesterol or triglycerides

This list is not all-inclusive and may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you are using. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some of those items may also interact with your medicine.

Is there anything I should pay attention to while taking it?

Pay regular visits to your doctor or health care professional to undergo checks on your progress. You will need to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly. If you are also taking some other cholesterol medicines, you will also need to have tests to make sure your liver is working properly.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if you get any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever and tiredness.

You need to follow a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet while you are taking this medicine. This will decrease your risk of getting a heart and blood vessel disease. Exercising and avoiding alcohol and smoking can also help. Ask your doctor or dietician for advice.

Does this medicine have any possible side effects?

The following side effects should be reported to your doctor or health care professional as soon as they are noticed:

• allergic reactions like skin rashes, itching or hives,face, lips, or tongue swelling
• dark yellow or brown urine
• unusual weakness or feeling tired
• yellowing of the skin or eyes

The side effects listed below usually do not necessarily require any medical attention (please do report them to your physician if they are recurrent or bothersome):

• diarrhea
• dizziness
• headache
• stomach upset or pain

Other side effects are also possible, the above list is not all inclusive.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep this medicine out of the children’s reach.

This medicine should be stored at the room temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep away from moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Dispose of any unused medicine after the expiry date is reached.