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.