A combination medication works by reducing cholesterol absorption in the intestine and decreasing cholesterol production in the liver, helping to effectively lower blood lipid levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Indications: - Treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia. - Reduction of elevated total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. - Prevention of cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.
Main Active Ingredients: - Ezetimibe 10 mg. - Atorvastatin 10 mg.
Precautions: - Contraindicated in active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations in liver enzymes. - Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. - Use with caution in patients with liver impairment or a history of alcohol abuse. - Monitor liver function before and during treatment. - Caution in patients at risk of muscle disorders or rhabdomyolysis.
Side Effects: - Headache. - Muscle pain or weakness. - Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or diarrhea. - Elevated liver enzymes. - Rare cases of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.
Drug-Drug Interactions: - Increased risk of muscle toxicity with fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil) or high-dose niacin. - Increased atorvastatin levels with CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, ketoconazole). - Reduced effectiveness with bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine) if taken together. - Caution with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) due to possible changes in effect.
- Follow your physician’s instructions.
- Take one tablet once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day.