Though many people have heard that high cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, millions who require drug therapy in addition to diet and exercise remain untreated.

In treating high cholesterol, physicians will frequently prescribe a medicine called a statin, which works mainly with the liver to decrease cholesterol in the bloodstream. There are other options available. Physicians will determine the appropriate treatment option based on their patients' needs.

ZETIA? (ezetimibe) is one option that, along with diet and exercise, can help lower LDL or "bad" cholesterol. This medicine works in the digestive tract, as do other medicines, but ZETIA is unique in the way it helps to block absorption of cholesterol that comes from food. In a clinical study in patients with an average LDL of 167 mg/dL, ZETIA lowered the bad cholesterol by as much as 30 points or 18 percent. These are average results. Individual results may vary.

"Diet and exercise are important steps to take in helping to lower elevated cholesterol," said Dr. Christopher Cannon, a cardiologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School. "However, if your doctor thinks that a medicine is required to reduce your cholesterol even further, then ZETIA may be an option worth considering."

ZETIA has not been shown to prevent heart disease or heart attacks.

Important Information

ZETIA is a prescription medication and should not be taken by people who are allergic to any of its ingredients. ZETIA may also be taken with a statin for the treatment of high cholesterol. When ZETIA is prescribed with a statin, it should not be taken by women who are nursing or pregnant or who may become pregnant, or by anyone with active liver disease. Statins should not be taken by anyone with these conditions. If you have ever had liver problems or are pregnant or nursing, your doctor will decide if ZETIA is right for you. Your doctor may do blood tests to check your liver before you start taking ZETIA with a statin and during treatment.

Tell your doctor if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or any medical problems while on ZETIA. In clinical studies patients reported few side effects while taking ZETIA. These include stomach pain and feeling tired.

Tell your doctor if you are having these or any other medical problems while on ZETIA. For a complete list of side effects, ask your doctor or pharmacist.