Generic Zetia

Zetia is a medication used to combat high cholesterol in the human body by preventing the small intestine from absorbing cholesterol and other sterols from the diet. Zetia, or generically known as ezetimibe, is used in conjunction with dietary control, weight control, regular exercise and smoking cessation. Lab tests and follow-up visits are required to monitor the drug’s effectiveness. This drug is designed to help lower cholesterol, not cure abnormal cholesterol levels. The patient must take an active role in the treatment

Not all patients are able to tolerate the effects of Zetia due to other health concerns. Patients with a medical history which includes kidney disease, over active thyroid, diabetes, or the use of steroid medications or hormonal medications may require extensive monitoring while taking this medicine. Some patients will not be able to take it at all. Physicians should be sure to assess a thorough medical status before prescribing this medication.

The American Food and Drug Administration rated Zetia as a pregnancy risk category C. There is a substantial risk of causing harm to an unborn baby. Testing has not yet revealed whether Zetia passes into the mother’s breast milk and causes harm to a nursing infant. However, the recommendation is that women who are pregnant, nursing, or who may become pregnant should avoid Zetia.

This medication should be taken exactly as it was prescribed by the doctor. Taking larger amounts than prescribed can be dangerous. In the event of a missed dose, the patient should not double up, but should take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is closing in the time for next regular dose, the missed dose can simply be skipped to avoid an overdose.

If an overdose is suspected, the patient requires medical assistance without delay. Prompt medical treatment is necessary in case of overdose, allergic reactions, or serious side effects. An overdose will present with symptoms that may include nausea, vomiting, headaches, weakness, dizziness, and general feelings of extreme illness. Other symptoms may be apparent.

An allergic reaction happens in about 1% of newly prescribed patients. A severe allergic reaction is likely to include swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, hives, and distressed breathing. Serious side effects, which also require prompt medical assistance, are likely to present with unusual muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness, chest pain or heaviness, and nausea accompanied by low fever, appetite loss, dark urine, clay colored stools, stomach discomfort, and jaundice.

Less serious side effects should be discussed with the prescribing physician, although they pose no real health threat. Less serious side effects may include cough, stomach irritation or pain, diarrhea, joint or muscle pain, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and cold symptoms.

Patients should only take medication that has been approved by their prescribing physician. Mixing medications can be very dangerous. All medications, whether they are prescriptions, over the counter, herbal remedies, or vitamin supplements should be discussed with the physician before taking the first dose. Medications with known interactions with Zetia include cholestyramine, blood thinners, cyclosporine, clofibrate, and gemfibrozil.

It may take a few weeks of treatment before symptoms or condition improves. Additionally, this medication should not be suddenly stopped, but patients should be weaned from their effects if it is ever possible and necessary. Diet, exercise, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle is vital in allowing Zetia to do its job.