See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ezetimibe

Ezetimibe is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels in the blood, either when used alone or in combination with a statin drug [1]. Statins are a class of drugs often prescribed to manage high cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease [2].

When ezetimibe is combined with a statin, it can lead to an enhanced lowering of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B, compared to when either drug is used alone [1]. This combination therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have not achieved their cholesterol goals with statin therapy alone [1].

Ezetimibe works by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, which reduces the amount of cholesterol available for delivery to the liver [1]. Statins, on the other hand, inhibit the production of cholesterol in the liver [2]. By combining these two mechanisms of action, ezetimibe and statins can effectively decrease cholesterol levels in the blood [1].

It is important to note that, like any medication, the combination of ezetimibe and statins can have potential side effects [1]. Common side effects include muscle pain, nausea, and constipation [1]. More serious side effects, such as liver damage and muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis), are less common but can occur [1].

In summary, ezetimibe interacts with statins by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, while statins inhibit the production of cholesterol in the liver [1][2]. This combination therapy can lead to a greater reduction in LDL cholesterol levels compared to when either drug is used alone [1].

Sources:
[1] "Ezetimibe and Simvastatin Tablets." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 Jan. 2021, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607045.html.
[2] "Statins: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, medlineplus.gov/statins.html.
[3] "Ezetimibe." DrugPatentWatch, drugpatentwatch.com/drug/ezetimibe.