Ezetimibe

GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Ezetimibe is a cholesterol lowering medication. '.

If you think Ezetimibe is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

How do I buy Ezetimibe online?

You can purchase Ezetimibe safely and conveniently online at UK Meds. Before your order is approved, you will need to complete a quick online consultation with a registered independent prescriber. This process ensures that Ezetimibe is the correct medication for your condition, offering both safety and peace of mind.

What is Ezetimibe?

Ezetimibe Uses

Ezetimibe is a medication prescribed to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood, especially when diet and lifestyle changes alone have not been effective.

How does Ezetimibe work?

Cholesterol in the body is divided into two types:

• "Good" cholesterol (HDL): Helps protect your heart and arteries.
• "Bad" cholesterol (LDL): Can cause plaque build-up in arteries, leading to health problems like heart attacks or strokes.

Ezetimibe works by:

• Reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (fats in the blood).
• Increasing HDL cholesterol to help counteract the effects of LDL.

It achieves this by blocking cholesterol absorption in your digestive system. However, it is not a weight-loss medication. Ezetimibe is often combined with statins to enhance cholesterol-lowering effects.

What are the benefits of taking Ezetimibe?

• Reduces Bad Cholesterol (LDL): Prevents the build-up of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to high blood pressure, heart attacks, or strokes.
• Boosts Good Cholesterol (HDL): Helps protect your arteries and vital organs.
• Effective with Statins: Works well alongside other cholesterol-lowering medications for improved results.
• Helps When Diet Alone Isn’t Enough: If healthy eating hasn’t improved your cholesterol, Ezetimibe can bring levels back to a healthy range.

Taking Ezetimibe as prescribed can support your heart health and reduce the risk of serious complications related to high cholesterol. Always consult your doctor before starting this medication.

For more information on the prescription medication patients should refer to the Ezetimibe patient information leaflet.

How do I use Ezetimibe tablets?

Ezetimibe is a prescription-only medication, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and read the patient information leaflet included in the packaging.

• Diet Comes First: Before starting Ezetimibe, you should already be following a cholesterol-lowering diet. This diet must continue while taking the medication to achieve the best results.
• How to Take Ezetimibe: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food, depending on your preference.
• Stick to Your Prescription: Always take the dose recommended by your doctor to ensure the medication works effectively.

Ezetimibe works best as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Speak to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about how to take this medication.

What is the typical dosage of Ezetimibe?

Ezetimibe 10mg

• Strength and Dosage: Each Ezetimibe tablet contains 10mg of the active ingredient. The standard recommended dose is one 10mg tablet taken once daily, at any time of day.
• Taking with Other Medicines: If you are also taking another cholesterol-lowering medication, be mindful of timing. Some medicines require specific intervals between doses. If unsure, consult your doctor for guidance.
• Missed Dose: If you forget a dose, skip it and take your next tablet as scheduled. Do not take two tablets to make up for a missed dose.
• Overdose: If you accidentally take more than the recommended dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately for advice.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and the guidance provided in the patient information leaflet for the best results and safety.

What are the common side effects of Ezetimibe?

Precautions Before Taking Ezetimibe

Before starting Ezetimibe, consult your doctor to ensure it is safe for you. Avoid taking Ezetimibe if:

• You are allergic to Ezetimibe or any ingredients in the medicine.
• You are taking a statin and have liver problems.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding while also taking a statin.

Inform Your Doctor If:

• You have any medical conditions or allergies.
• You are already on a statin.
• You have moderate or severe liver issues.
• You are taking fibrates (another cholesterol-lowering medication).

Potential Drug Interactions

Ezetimibe can interact with other medications. Inform your doctor if you are taking:

• Ciclosporin (used in organ transplant patients).
• Blood-thinning medications like warfarin.
• Cholestyramine (used to lower cholesterol).
• Fibrates (also used to lower cholesterol).

Lifestyle Recommendations

For best results, pair Ezetimibe with a cholesterol-lowering diet as advised by your doctor or a nutritionist. Start this diet before treatment and continue it alongside your medication.

Common Side Effects

Some people may experience mild side effects when taking Ezetimibe, such as:

• Abdominal pain.
• Diarrhoea or flatulence.
• Feeling tired.
• Headaches.
• Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.
• Elevated liver enzyme levels (seen in blood tests).

When to Contact Your Doctor

If any side effects persist, worsen, or become severe, inform your doctor immediately. Always keep your healthcare provider updated on your condition while using Ezetimibe.