See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ezetimibe
Ezetimibe is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels in the blood, typically in combination with a statin drug [1]. Its primary mechanism of action is to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive system [1]. However, the impact of ezetimibe on triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood, is not its primary function.
According to the drug's prescribing information, ezetimibe can modestly reduce triglyceride levels, but this effect is generally observed when ezetimibe is used in combination with a statin [2]. A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that the addition of ezetimibe to statin therapy resulted in a significant reduction in triglyceride levels compared to statin therapy alone [3].
It is important to note that while ezetimibe can have a modest impact on triglyceride levels, it is not primarily used for this purpose. Other medications, such as fibrates and omega-3 fatty acids, are more commonly used to treat high triglyceride levels [4].
In summary, ezetimibe can have a modest impact on triglyceride levels, but its primary use is to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. If you have concerns about your triglyceride levels, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional.
Sources:
[1] "Ezetimibe." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 16 Feb. 2022, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605002.html.
[2] "Zetia (Ezetimibe) Tablets, for Oral Use." DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 Mar. 2022, druginfo.nlm.nih.gov/druginfo/label-summary/zetia-ezetimibe-tablets-for-oral-use.
[3] "Ezetimibe Added to Statin Therapy." American Journal of Cardiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 Aug. 2003, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12922586/.
[4] "High Triglycerides." Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 16 Feb. 2022, mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/triglycerides/art-20048187.