What is Vytorin?

Vytorin is a combination medication combining ezetimibe and simvastatin which is used to lower levels of “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides and to increase levels of “good” cholesterol in the body and should be used together with lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol in adults and children over 10 years old. Lifestyle changes to help can include eating a low-fat diet, exercising, losing weight if necessary and stopping smoking.

How does Vytorin work?

The two medications, ezetimibe and simvastatin work together to lower “bad’ cholesterol and raise “good” cholesterol. Ezetimibe works by reducing the amount of cholesterol that your body absorbs from your diet while simvastatin reduces the amount of cholesterol made by the liver.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Vytorin should be taken orally either with or without food. This medication is typically taken once a day in the evening.
• Your Vytorin dosage is based on your age, medical condition, response to treatment and the other medications which you are taking. Do not change your Vytorin dosage unless advised by a doctor. Your condition will not improve faster by taking a higher dose but the risk of side effects may be increased.
• If you also take bile acid-binding drugs such as cholestyramine or colestipol to control your cholesterol, take Vytorin either two hours before or four hours after taking these medications.
• Vytorin should be taken regularly to be most effective. Try to take it at the same time each day and continue to take this medication even when you feel well.
• It may be up to four weeks before you feel the benefit of this drug. Continue to follow your doctor’s advice about lifestyle changes.
• Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Vytorin.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history especially of liver disase or kidney disease.
• Your use of alcohol.

Also be aware that:

• You should limit your alcohol intake while taking Vytorin as alcohol and Vytorin may increase your risk for liver problems.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to Vytorin side effects.
• Do not take Vytorin during pregnancy or while breast feeding. Prevent pregnancy while taking this medication and ask your doctor about methods of birth control.

Common Vytorin side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Headache or muscle pain.
• Diarrhea.
• Abnormal liver function tests.
• Signs of a cold such as stuffy nose, sneezing or a sore throat.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following Vytorin side effects:

• Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness.
• Fever.
• Unusual tiredness.
• Upper stomach pain, loss of appetite or jaundice.
• Dark colored urine.
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, rashes, difficulty breathing or a swelling of the face, throat or tongue.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Vytorin?

A: While you are taking Vytorin, you should avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice as this can interact with your medication causing unwanted side effects. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, smoking or eating foods which are high in fat.

Q: What lifestyle changes should I make to lower my cholesterol?

A: As well as taking Vytorin, you should eat a low-fat diet, exercise, lose weight if necessary and stop smoking.