An Introduction to Ezetimibe/Simvastatin Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
ezetimibe/simvastatin (
Vytorin®); however, not everyone who takes
ezetimibe/
simvastatin will develop side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug quite well. If side effects do occur, they are generally minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
If you are taking ezetimibe/simvastatin and experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (especially if accompanied by a fever or feeling of illness), it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with ezetimibe/simvastatin. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you.)
Serious Side Effects Seen With Ezetimibe/Simvastatin
Some ezetimibe/
simvastatin side effects should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
- Signs of liver damage, such as:
- Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Upper-right abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Dark urine
- Elevated liver enzymes (see Vytorin and Liver Problems)
- Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever or feel ill, which may be signs of serious breakdown of muscle, known as rhabdomyolysis
- Significant, unexplained changes in the amount of urine you produce (which may be a sign of kidney problems)
- Signs of pancreatitis, such as severe upper abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- A rash
- Itching
- Joint pain (see Vytorin and Joint Pain)
- Anemia
- Low white blood cells counts
- Sensitivity to the sun
- Fever and chills
- Flushing
- A general ill feeling
- Hives
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat.
