Ezetimibe/atorvastatin

Ezetimibe/atorvastatin is a medication used in the treatment of high cholesterol. It is a combination of two drugs, ezetimibe and atorvastatin, which work together to lower the levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL) and triglycerides in the blood, while increasing levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL).

Etymology

The name "ezetimibe" is derived from the chemical name "(3R,4S)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-[(3S)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-hydroxypropyl]-4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)azetidin-2-one". The name "atorvastatin" comes from the chemical name "[[R-(R*,R*)]-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-β,δ-dihydroxy-5-(1-methylethyl)-3-phenyl-4-[(phenylamino)carbonyl]-1H-pyrrole-1-heptanoic acid]]".

Pharmacology

Ezetimibe works by reducing the amount of cholesterol absorbed by the body, while atorvastatin inhibits an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol. The combination of these two drugs is more effective at lowering cholesterol levels than either drug alone.

Uses

Ezetimibe/atorvastatin is used to treat high cholesterol and to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. It is typically prescribed to patients who have not been able to lower their cholesterol levels through diet and exercise alone.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ezetimibe/atorvastatin include headache, muscle pain, and diarrhea. Serious side effects can include liver problems and a rare but serious muscle condition called rhabdomyolysis.

Related Terms

• Cholesterol
• Low-density lipoprotein
• High-density lipoprotein
• Triglycerides
• Cardiovascular disease
• Stroke
• Rhabdomyolysis