Ezetimibe/simvastatin (IPA: ) is a drug combination used for the treatment of dyslipidemia. It is a combination of ezetimibe and the statin drug simvastatin. The combination preparation is marketed by Merck & Co. and Schering-Plough under the trade names Vytorin and Inegy.

Ezetimibe works by reducing the amount of cholesterol that the body absorbs from the food ingested.

Simvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or statin. It works by blocking an enzyme that is necessary for the body to make cholesterol.

Vytorin should be used in combination with a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet. Vytorin is not a cure for high cholesterol, but may help to control it.

Use

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• Vytorin may be taken on an empty stomach or with food, preferably in the evening.
• If patient is also taking a bile acid sequestrant such as cholestyramine, colestipol or colesevelam, Vytorin should be taken at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after the bile acide sequestrant.
• While taking Vytorin, patients should not drink large amounts of grapefruit juice (greater than 1 quart daily) or eat large amounts of grapefruit.
• Vytorin should be stored at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light.
• Doses should not be missed. If a dose is skipped, it should be taken as soon as possible, but if it is almost time for the next dose, patient should skip the missed dose and not take 2 doses at once.

Possible side effects

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Side effects that may occur while taking Vytorin include headache and tiredness. The treating doctor should be contacted immediately if the patient experiences muscle aches, pain, tenderness or weakness, especially if associated with unusual tiredness and a fever, yellowing of skin or eyes; dark urine; change in the amount of urine; stomach pain; ongoning nausea or vomiting; or blurred vision or vision changes. Although allergic reactions are uncommon, the doctor should be contacted if the patient has symptoms of rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.

External links

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• Vytorin's Official Site