Skip to main content

When is the best time to take ezetimibe?

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on Nov 1, 2024.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Ezetimibe can be taken anytime of the day, with or without food, as long as it is taken consistently and at the same time each day.

The best time to take ezetimibe is:

  • when you are most likely to remember to take it
  • for some people this might be in the morning, others maybe at night and some people might find it easier to take it at midday
  • the most important thing is to find a time that suits you and set that as the time you are going to take it

If you are on other medications it is important to consider those as well. Some medications can be taken at the same time as ezetimibe (eg. statin medications) while other medications need to be taken at a separate time to ezetimibe (eg. bile acid sequestrants).

If you are unsure whether other medicines that you are on can be taken at the same time as ezetimibe, then talk to your pharmacist or other healthcare professional who will be able to give you guidance in this area.

Bottom line:

  • Ezetimibe can be taken any time of the day, with or without food.
  • Ezetimibe should be taken consistently at the same time each day.
  • Take it at a time of the day when you are most likely to remember to take it.
References

Ezetimibe Medication Information: https://www.drugs.com/ppa/ezetimibe.html

Read next

Does Zetia (ezetimibe) cause memory loss?

Memory loss is not a side effect of Zetia (ezetimibe) when it is used alone to treat high cholesterol. Zetia is often used with diet and other cholesterol lowering medications like statins which have been linked with cognitive impairment (memory loss, forgetfulness, or confusion). Continue reading

Can Zetia (ezetimibe) cause liver damage?

Yes, Zetia (ezetimibe) can cause liver damage, although it is very rare. Monitor liver enzymes for the development of serious toxic hepatitis and consider ezetimibe discontinuation if it develops. Perform liver tests during ezetimibe initiation and regularly thereafter and consider withdrawal of ezetimibe and/or the statin (if coadministered) should an increase in ALT or AST ≥3 X upper limit of normal (ULN) persist. Continue reading

How does Zetia (ezetimibe) work to lower cholesterol?

It reduces cholesterol absorption from the small intestine so there is less cholesterol delivered to the liver. This means there is a lower amount of cholesterol stored in the liver, which leads to more cholesterol being cleared from the blood. Continue reading

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups

Medical Disclaimer