What is Vytorin/Ezetimibe/simvastatin used for?
Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) is a medication that is designed to lower one’s cholesterol by reducing the total amount of cholesterol that is absorbed in the body and stop the production of cholesterol. It does this by reducing "bad" cholesterol and raising "good" cholesterol in the blood stream. This helps to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and circulation problems.
How should Vytorin/Ezetimibe/simvastatin be stored?
Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) should be stored away from moisture and heat at room temperature.
General information
How should I take Vytorin/Ezetimibe/simvastatin?
Follow your doctor’s instructions and your prescription closely. Do not take larger doses than recommended. Take Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) once a day with or without food, preferably in the evening. It can take up to 2 weeks before your cholesterol starts to improve. Have your doctor test your blood and cholesterol levels regularly. Do not miss any doctor visits.
When should Vytorin/Ezetimibe/simvastatin not be taken?
Do not take Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) if you are allergic to ezetimibe (Zetia) or simvastatin (Zocor), or if you have: liver disease; or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Also be sure to tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease; diabetes; an underactive thyroid; a muscle disorder; or if you use steroid medicine or hormones (including birth control pills).
What precautions should I follow when taking Vytorin/Ezetimibe/simvastatin?
Do not eat foods that are high in fat or cholesterol and avoid drinking alcohol. Talk to your doctor if you are taking another cholesterol lowering drug. Also talk to your doctor about grapefruit juice, grapefruit, or grapefruit products because they may have negative side effects. Be sure to also avoid exposure to artificial UV or sunlight; wear sunscreen of at least SPF 15 when going into the sun.
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Vytorin/Ezetimibe/simvastatin?
Although it is rare, Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) can cause the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue which may lead to kidney failure. If you have strange muscle pain or tenderness, muscle weakness, fever or flu symptoms, or dark colored urine, contact your doctor immediately.
What are the side effects of Vytorin/Ezetimibe/simvastatin?
Seek medical attention if you have any of these severe Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) side effects: muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness with fever or flu symptoms and dark colored urine; nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); pancreatitis (severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, nausea and vomiting, fast heart rate); easy bruising or bleeding; or blurred vision.
Less serious Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) side effects may include: numbness or tingly feeling; headache, dizziness, memory problems; depressed mood; constipation, diarrhea; cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose; joint pain, back pain; or sleep prob
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.