What happens if you stop taking Ezetimibe?
Ezetimibe works to reduce cholesterol levels only while you are taking the medication, if you stop taking ezetimibe then it will stop having its effect and your cholesterol levels will return to the levels you had before treatment.
Ezetimibe decreases cholesterol levels by reducing cholesterol absorption from the small intestine. This means there will be less buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances (atherosclerosis) on artery walls and if taken long term then reduces risk of heart disease.
For ezetimibe to have cardiovascular benefits you need to take it regularly and long term. If you stop taking it, within a few weeks when there is no ezetimibe left in the body, cholesterol absorption from the small intestine will return to normal and the rate of buildup of fats and cholesterol in the arteries will revert back to the pre ezetimibe rate.
Bottom line:
- Ezetimibe is a medicine you take long term to reduce cholesterol levels and therefore reduce future cardiovascular risk.
- If you stop taking ezetimibe, cholesterol level will revert back to the original levels prior to taking ezetimibe.
- Risk of cardiovascular disease may revert back to the level it was prior to ezetimibe treatment.
References
Zetia Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/pro/zetia.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
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Related medical questions
- Does Zetia (ezetimibe) cause weight gain/loss or muscle aches/pains?
- When should you take ezetimibe?
- Is ezetimibe a statin drug?
- When is the best time to take ezetimibe?
- Does ezetimibe lower triglycerides?
- When is the best time to take Zetia?
- Can ezetimibe be taken with statin drugs like atorvastatin?
Drug information
- Ezetimibe Information for Consumers
- Ezetimibe prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Ezetimibe (detailed)
- Ezetimibe user reviews (177)
Related support groups
- Ezetimibe (18 questions, 15 members)