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Ezetimibe
Ezetimibe is used to treat high cholesterol and a rare genetic condition known as sitosterolemia. The medication, which belongs to a class of drugs called cholesterol absorption inhibitors, works in the digestive tract by blocking the absorption of cholesterol from foods that you eat. It comes in tablet form and is typically taken once a day. Commonly reported side effects include diarrhea, joint pain, and sinus infection.
Ezetimibe (Zetia®) is a prescription medication used for treating high cholesterol. It is part of a class of drugs called cholesterol absorption inhibitors.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with ezetimibe; however, not everyone who takes it will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate the drug well. In most cases, if side effects do occur, they are minor and can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
The most common side effects include:
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Sinus infection
- Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold).
Also, keep in mind that if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (especially if they are accompanied by a fever or if you feel ill), it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately (see Zetia and Muscle Pain).
(Click Side Effects of Ezetimibe to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD