Ezetimibe: cholesterol treatment, statins and medicine spacing
This guide is here to teach you. It is not medical advice, and it does not replace your doctor or pharmacist. Always do what your doctor tells you, and ask a pharmacist before you change how you take any medicine.
Print or save this guideQuick answers
What does ezetimibe do?
It reduces cholesterol absorption in the intestine. It may be used alone or with another cholesterol medicine, depending on your plan.
Is it another statin?
No. It works differently. If your prescriber added it to a statin, do not assume it replaces the statin.
Does it need food?
It can be taken with or without food. Follow your prescribed daily schedule.
Source: MedlinePlus ezetimibe.
Which medicines need spacing?
Take ezetimibe at least two hours before or four hours after a bile-acid sequestrant such as cholestyramine, colestipol or colesevelam. Ask your pharmacist to write out the schedule if you take one of these medicines. Ezetimibe label, administration and interactions
What if I miss a dose?
Take it when remembered unless the next dose is almost due; then skip it. Do not double the next dose. MedlinePlus
How do I know it is helping?
High cholesterol usually does not feel different as it improves. Keep ordered cholesterol checks and continue your prescribed food and treatment plan. Ask how your results compare with the goal set for you. MedlinePlus
What should I report or discuss?
Report unexplained muscle pain or weakness, particularly with fever or feeling ill. Yellow skin or eyes needs prompt medical advice; facial swelling or trouble breathing needs emergency care. Tell your pharmacist about liver disease, cyclosporine, fibrates and other cholesterol medicines. Pregnancy and breastfeeding advice also depends on any medicines used with ezetimibe. Ezetimibe label, warnings, interactions and patient information
Check your full cholesterol plan
Ask a Fairview pharmacist about your medicines or request a transfer. Prescription services are through the pharmacy, not the OTC shop. This guide is general education.