Ezemibe

Uses
Ezemibe (Ezetimibe) works by reducing the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed by the small intestine. It is used in the treatment of patients affected by high cholesterol. Conditions which can cause this include primary hyperlipidemia, homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and homozygous sitosterolemia. Although this medicine does not prevent the synthesis of cholesterol by the liver, it is able to work at the small intestine where it reduces the absorption of cholesterol into the blood. In some cases, this medicine may be given in conjunction with statins or other medicines to boost overall cholesterol reduction.

Dosage and Administration
Ezemibe (Ezetimibe) comes in the form of 10mg tablets which are intended for oral administration. Your physician will calculate the required dosage based on individual factors. It is common for adults treating hyperlipedemia or sitosterolemia to be instructed by the physician to administer 10mg per day. Patients may take the tablets with or without food. If you have been told by your physician to administer a bile acid sequestrant, ensure that you take ezetimibe 2 hours before or 4 hours after the administration of the bile acid sequestrant. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor.

Side effects
Taking Ezemibe (Ezetimibe) to lower cholesterol levels may cause some side effects, such as:

• Coughing
• Flatulence
• Tiredness
• Nasal stuffiness
• Pain that occurs in the joints

Patients who experience side effects while being treated with this medicine must tell their doctor. You must go to visit your doctor straight away if you experience pancreatitis, muscular weakness, fever or any other symptoms which are severe.

Precautions
Severe muscular problems have been associated with Ezemibe (Ezetimibe). If signs of this occur, you must immediately see your doctor.

Medical tests may be required (especially if you have been told to take a statin in combination with this medicine) to check the function of your liver.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Ezemibe (Ezetimibe) may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.