ezetimibe

Approved for medical use in 2002, Ezetimibe is a drug indicated for the treatment of “high blood cholesterol and other lipid abnormalities” in people with high cholesterol levels. In most cases, this medication is used as part of a combination therapy with healthy diet and a statin (i.e. drugs that reduce levels of fats in the blood) According to healthline.com, “Ezetimibe blocks the amount of cholesterol that’s absorbed from your intestines” thereby reducing cholesterol in the patient’s liver and blood. Bear in mind that Ezetimibe, which comes as an oral tablet, can be taken with or without food. As for its side effects, they include drowsiness, diarrhea, joint pain, and upper respiratory tract infections (i.e. infection of the nose, throat, and airways) According to Wikipedia.com, this medication can also cause other side effects that are more serious such as “anaphylaxis, liver problems, depression, and muscle breakdown” Considering it is still unclear if Ezetimibe is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, consulting a doctor before using it is highly recommended.