Anti-hyperlipidemia ( Ezetimibe and Omega-3 fatty acids )

 



Anti-hyperlipidemia ( Ezetimibe and Omega-3 fatty acids ) 

Ezetimibe: 

Mechanism of action: 

Ezetimibe works by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol from the intestines into the liver so that it is excreted in the feces.

Pharmacological action: 

It reduces the level of both Low density lipoprotein (LDL) and hepatic cholesterol esters, so Ezetimibe works on cholesterol clearance from the blood.

The uses: 

Used as an adjunct to statins therapy or in statins intolerant patients. 

Side effect ( as symptoms of common cold ) : 

1- fever

2- muscle pain 

3- headache 

4- sore throat 

5- runny nose

Drug interactions: 

Gemfibrozil should not be used with ezetimibe because it increases the risk of gallstones forming.

Contraindications: 

Ezetimibe should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction.


Omega-3 fatty acids: 

Mechanism of action: 

Omega-3 fatty acids inhibit the production of both triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein (vLDL) in the liver.

Pharmacological action: 

1- decrease triglycerides 

2- decrease inflammation 

3- increase endothelial function 

4- vasodilation 

5- decrease platelet aggregation 

6- increase blood rheology 

7- decrease arrhythmias 

8- increase mitochondrial function 

9- cardiovascular protection 

The uses: 

1- used as adjunct to other anti hyperlipidemia. 

2- OTC supplement ( over the counter ) 

Side effect: 

1- abdominal pain 

2- muscle pain 

3- diarrhea 

4- nausea 

5- fishy aftertaste 

Drug interactions:

INR should be monitored when anticoagulant or platelet inhibitors are used with omega-3 fatty acids because they increase the risk of bleeding.

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