The use of ezetimibe in achieving low density lipoprotein lowering goals in clinical practice: position statement of a United Kingdom consensus panel
Abstract
There is no doubt that lowering serum cholesterol levels reduces the risk of major coronary events. This evidence has led treatment guidelines to set progressively lower targets for low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). However, despite widespread use of statins, substantial numbers of patients do not achieve the LDL-C goals. Using higher doses of statins in an attempt to achieve these targets may increase the risk of serious adverse effects. Furthermore, the use of combination therapy with agents such as bile acid sequestrants, niacin and fibrates has been limited by increased potential for side effects, drug interactions and poor compliance. Ezetimibe, a selective cholesterol transport inhibitor, reduces the intestinal uptake of cholesterol without affecting absorption of triglycerides or fat-soluble vitamins. In clinical studies, ezetimibe 10 mg, in combination with statins or as monotherapy, was well tolerated and reduced LDL-C by 34-53% and 17-18%, respectively. The available evidence for ezetimibe is reviewed. The role of ezetimibe in increasing the proportion of patients attaining LDL-C treatment goals is discussed.
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Date
2005-06
Type
Article
Subject
Pharmacology, Vascular diseases, Diabetes
Collections
Citation
Mikhailidis DP, Wierzbicki AS, Daskalopoulou SS, Al-Saady N, Griffiths H, Hamilton G, Monkman D, Patel V, Pittard J, Schachter M. The use of ezetimibe in achieving low density lipoprotein lowering goals in clinical practice: position statement of a United Kingdom consensus panel. Curr Med Res Opin. 2005 Jun;21(6):959-69. doi: 10.1185/030079905x48447.
Journal / Source Title
Current Medical Research and Opinion
DOI
10.1185/030079905X48447
PMID
15969896
Publisher
Informa Healthcare