Side Effects of Ezetimibe

Some of the common side effects of ezetimibe include headache, sinus infection, and fatigue. Rare side effects can include allergic reactions, gallstones, muscle weakness, and serious breakdown of muscles (a condition known as rhabdomyolysis). If, while taking ezetimibe, you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness -- especially if they are accompanied by a fever or body aches -- you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. Also let your healthcare provider know if you experience any other side effects, as well as anything that "just does not seem right."

 

Side Effects of Ezetimibe: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects of ezetimibe (Zetia®). However, not everyone who takes ezetimibe will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate ezetimibe well. In most cases, when side effects of ezetimibe do occur, they are minor and can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Infrequently, side effects may be more troublesome or serious, and your healthcare provider may need to take you off of ezetimibe.
 
If while taking ezetimibe you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness -- especially if they are accompanied by a fever or body aches -- it is important that you contact your healthcare provider immediately.
  
(The side effects of ezetimibe discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with the medication. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of ezetimibe side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Ezetimibe

Ezetimibe has been studied extensively in clinical trials, with more than 12,000 people having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects are always documented. The most common ezetimibe side effects, observed in more than 2 percent of people taking the drug, include but are not limited to:
  
  • Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold) -- in up to 4.3 percent of people
  • Diarrhea -- up to 4.1 percent
  • Joint pain -- up to 3 percent
  • Sinus infection -- up to 2.8 percent
  • Pain in an arm or leg -- up to 2.7 percent
  • Fatigue -- up to 2.4 percent
  • The flu -- up to 2 percent.
      
(Side Effects of Ezetimibe Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;