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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 fatsoluble 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.