Ezetimibe
Also known as: Ezetna, (5CH58235), Zetia
Ezetimibe is a lipid regulating drug that inhibits the intestinal absorption of cholesterol. Ezetimibe is used as an adjunct to dietary measures and statin in primary and homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia.
Primary Characteristics
Ezetimibe is also known as Ezetna, (5CH58235), Zetia.
It is of Synthetic origin.
Molecular Weight: 409.4 · Solubility in Water: Highly insoluble · Solubility in Alcohol: Freely soluble · Non-proprietary name: Ezetimibe.

Pharmacokinetics
Distribution: Ezetimibe has a volume of distribution is 1.5 L/kg. plasma protein binding is >90%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Enterohepatic, plasma half-life is 28-30 hrs, renal excretion is 10%.
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Indications
Ezetimibe is primarily indicated in conditions like Hypercholesterolaemia, Primary hypercholesterolaemia.
Ezetimibe is also indicated for secondary conditions like Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.
Contraindications
Ezetimibe is contraindicated in conditions like Liver diseases, Hypersensitivity to any component of product.
Dosage
Ezetimibe's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 0 – 10 mg | — | Every 24h | ||
| 10 mg | 10 mg | Every 24h | PO | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Ezetimibe in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Thrombocytopenia , Hepatitis , Pancreatitis , Rhabdomyolysis , Muscular weakness , Chest pain , Choelithiasis, cholecystitis.
Ezetimibe produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylaxis . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
Ezetimibe is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Cough , Diarrhea, Dizziness, Headache, Mild stomach pain, Myalgia.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Ezetimibe may interfere in the diagnosis of Elevation of Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) with actual muscle damage in a much smaller proportion..
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.12.6 — Lipid-regulating drugs /Anti-atheromas