Ezetimibe
Zetia (ezetimibe) is a brand-name cholesterol-lowering medication that belongs to the cholesterol absorption inhibitor class. It works by blocking the absorption of dietary cholesterol in the small intestine, which helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the blood. Zetia is typically prescribed for patients who need additional cholesterol reduction when statins alone are insufficient or for those who cannot tolerate statin therapy.
Zetia is a cholesterol-lowering medication that reduces LDL cholesterol by blocking cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 353099
- Generic
- Zetia
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Zetia is used to treat hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol) and heterozygous familial and non-familial hypercholesterolemia. It is prescribed alongside statin therapy for patients who need additional LDL cholesterol reduction, or as monotherapy for patients who cannot tolerate statins.
Zetia works by inhibiting the Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1 (NPC1L1) protein in the small intestine, which is responsible for absorbing cholesterol from the diet. By blocking this absorption, Zetia reduces the amount of cholesterol that enters the bloodstream, leading to lowered LDL cholesterol levels.
Zetia is typically used in combination with statins or as an alternative for statin-intolerant patients. Common side effects may include muscle pain, diarrhea, and joint pain. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any liver problems before starting treatment. Zetia should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical consultation.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy