Zetia is a cholesterol absorption inhibitor primarily used as an adjuvant therapy for primary hypercholesterolemia. The standard dose is 10mg orally once daily, which can be taken with or without food. When using combination therapy, attention should be paid to the interaction with statins and regular monitoring of liver function. The following provides a detailed explanation from three aspects: usage, dosage, combination therapy, and precautions.

1. Usage and dosage

(1) Adult standard dose: 10mg orally once daily, can be taken at any time of the day without considering the impact of food intake.

(2) Special population: Mild liver dysfunction patients do not require dose adjustment; Patients with moderate to severe liver dysfunction should use it with caution. Renal insufficiency and elderly patients usually do not require dose adjustment.

(3) Omission treatment: If missed, it should be replenished as soon as possible. If it is close to the next medication time, it should be skipped and double the dosage should not be taken.

2 Combination therapy

(1) Combined use with statins: can enhance lipid-lowering effects, but attention should be paid to the possibility of increasing the risk of myopathy. When used in combination, creatine kinase levels should be monitored.

(2) Combined use with beta agonists: Careful evaluation is necessary as it may increase the risk of gallstones. It is recommended to undergo regular gallbladder ultrasound examinations.

(3) Combined use with cyclosporine: significantly increases the blood concentration of ezetimibe, and combination use is prohibited.

3 Precautions

(1) Liver function monitoring: Regular check ups of liver function are required during treatment. If AST/ALT continues to rise to 3 times the upper limit of normal values, medication should be discontinued.

(2) Muscle symptoms: If unexplained muscle pain or weakness occurs, seek medical attention immediately and monitor creatine kinase levels.

(3) Pregnancy and lactation period: It is prohibited during pregnancy, and breastfeeding women should stop breastfeeding during medication.

(4) Allergic reactions: It is contraindicated for those who are allergic to the ingredients of the medication. If allergic symptoms such as rash and facial swelling occur, the medication should be stopped immediately.