Vytorin, a Cholesterol-Lowering Prescription Medication

Vytorin (ezetimibe/simvastatin)

Available in tablet form. Contains Zetia (ezetimibe) and Zocor (simvastatin) that reportedly act together in blocking the absorption of food-related cholesterol and in lowering total cholesterol including LDL cholesterol - the 'bad' cholesterol that poses significant health risks. Generally, a liver test may be performed to check for liver disease or issues before Vytorin is prescribed.

A note about Zetia before continuing. Merck & Schering-Plough (manufacturers of this drug) claim that Zetia failed to perform in prohibiting accumulation of plaque within the arteries. Take note that Vytorin contains Zetia so we recommend speaking with your doctor about this aspect/ingredient before taking.

- Vytorin works to decrease triglycerides found in the blood.
- Vytorin also raises level of 'good' HDL cholesterol.
- Vytorin decreases the amount of cholesterol absorbed in the digestive track.
- Vytorin decreases the levels of cholesterol made naturally by the body that contribute to increased health risks.

Who Shouldn't Take Vytorin

- pregnant women
- breastfeeding mothers
- women who may become pregnant
- individuals taking certain medications that may react unfavorably with Vytorin
- individuals allergic to ezetimibe or simvastatin (the active ingredients in Vytorin)
- individuals with liver issues
- individuals under the age of 10

Possible Side Effects of Vytorin (ezetimibe/simvastatin)

Vytorin is taken orally once per day and may be taken with or without food. The individual should contact their doctor when experiencing the following while taking Vytorin:

- headache
- allergic reactions
- joint pain
- liver problems
- pancreatic issues
- gallbladder issues
- muscle pain
- weakness
- tenderness

Side effects may increase in combination with the following medications: danazol, antifungal medications, cyclosporine, gemfibrozil, bezafibrate, fenofibrate, certain antibiotics, HIV protease inhibitors, nefazodone, amiodarone, certain anticoagulants such as wafarin and coumarin, verapamil.

Individuals taking Vytorin should also inform their doctor if they:

- take large doses (more than 1 gram per day) of niacin or nicotinic acid
- consume grapefruit (which may interact with Vytorin when grapefruit or grapefruit juice is consumed in large quantities)
- use or are consider using natural or herbal remedies
- consume large quantities of alcohol

Inactive Ingredients in Vytorin

- butylated hydroxyanisole NF
- citric acid monohydrate USP
- croscarmellose sodium NF
- hydroxypropyl methylcellulose USP
- lactose monohydrate NF
- magnesium stearate NF
- microcrystalline cellulose NF
- propyl gallate NF

Vytorin is a trademark of MERCK and Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals.

Click below for information on popular cholesterol-lowering prescription medications.

Zetia | Lipitor

The Low Cholesterol Diet - The three levels of cholesterol and an example of a low cholesterol diet plan. continue

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