VytorinEzetimibe/Simvastatin

Drug Class and Mechanism

Vytorin is a combination of ezetimibe (Zetia) and simvastatin (Zocor) that is used for treating high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Vytorin reduces total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol while it increases high density lipoprotein cholesterol. The ezetimibe component of Vytorin lowers blood cholesterol by blocking the absorption of cholesterol, including dietary cholesterol, from the intestine. It does not affect the absorption of triglycerides. The simvastatin component of Vytorin belongs to a class of drugs called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, commonly called \"statins\". Statins reduce cholesterol by blocking an enzyme in the liver (HMG-CoA reductase) that produces cholesterol. Statins lower total and LDL cholesterol in the blood as well as triglycerides. They also increase HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is believed to be an important cause of coronary artery disease. Lowering LDL cholesterol levels slows and may even reverse coronary artery disease. Raising HDL cholesterol levels also may slow coronary artery disease.

Storage

Vytorin should be stored at room temperature, 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F).

Drug name

Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin)

Drug Uses

Vytorin (Ezetimibe/Simvastatin) is used for reducing total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides and for increasing HDL cholesterol.

Vytorin is available in a 20 mg dosage ( 10 mg of ezetimibe and 10 mg of simvastatin) and in a 30 mg dosage (10 mg of ezetimibe, and 20 mg of simvastatin).

How Taken

The recommended dose range of Vytorin is 10/10 mg to 10/80 mg, and it is administered once daily in the evening with or with out food. Therapy usually is initiated with 10/20 mg daily, but individuals who need more than a 55% reduction in LDL cholesterol can be started on 10/40 mg daily.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.