What Are the Side Effects of the Drug Zetia?
Zetia is the brand name for ezetimibe, a prescription medication used to reduce the amount of triglycerides and cholesterol present in the blood stream. It is an antihyperlipidemic that prevents the body from absorbing all of the cholesterol in food. Zetia is safely prescribed to anyone over the age of 10; patients typically take 10mg once a day. Zetia is most effective when taken in unison with a low-fat, heart-healthy diet.
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Cold-like Symptoms
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Patients taking Zetia may have symptoms normally associated with the common cold, such as sore throat, runny nose, congestion, sinus pain and fever.
Headache
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Frequent headaches and dizziness are experienced by some people while taking Zetia.
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Pain
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Aches and pains, including general muscle or joint pain, back pain and facial pain, are experienced by some patients.
Stomach Problems
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Nausea and diarrhea are common side effects.
Other Side Effects
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Zetia may cause fatigue, numb or tingly sensations and depression.
Serious Side Effects
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Prompt medical attention is warranted for all of the following side effects: trouble breathing, chest pain, bleeding gums, blood in stools or urine, black stools, dark-colored urine, severe abdominal pain, facial swelling, genital swelling or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Drug Interaction Side Effects
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Do not take Zetia with fenofibrate or gemfibrozil, because the combination may increase the risk of developing gallstones. Taking cholestyramine along with Zetia may interfere with Zetia's intended effects. In addition, Zetia combined with warfarin or cyclosprine poses serious risks that may alter the metabolizing of the drug and trigger development of myopathy, an acute muscle problem.
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