See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ezetimibe
Ezetimibe is a medication that is used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. It works by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol that enters the bloodstream [1].
In terms of heart health, high levels of cholesterol can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. By reducing cholesterol levels, ezetimibe can help to lower the risk of these cardiovascular events.
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, ezetimibe is available as a standalone medication and is also available in combination with other cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as simvastatin [2]. The website notes that ezetimibe has been shown to be effective in reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, and that it may also have additional benefits for heart health beyond its cholesterol-lowering effects [2].
A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that ezetimibe, when added to statin therapy, significantly reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death [3]. The study also found that ezetimibe was well-tolerated and had a low risk of side effects [3].
In summary, ezetimibe is a medication that can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. It works by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, and has been shown to be effective in reducing LDL cholesterol levels. Ezetimibe may also have additional benefits for heart health beyond its cholesterol-lowering effects.
Sources:
1. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Ezetimibe (Oral Route). Retrieved from <
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ezetimibe-oral-route/description/drg-20062539>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Ezetimibe. Retrieved from <
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/ezetimibe>
3. Cannon, C. P., Blazing, M. A., Giugliano, R. P., McCagg, A., White, J. A., Ryan, T. J., ... & Braunwald, E. (2010). Ezetimibe and simvastatin in atherosclerosis. The New England journal of medicine, 362(14), 1302-1313.