Risks Associated With Taking Zetia
A study completed in 2006 (which has been recently released in January, 2008) shows that the use of Zetia or ezetimibe can cause risks to the liver. These risks include liver damage when used long term with statins (other cholesterol drugs). Zetia is commonly used with other cholesterol drugs as the combination is thought to be more effective.
Unfortunately, the risks of liver damage were never published by Zetia’s manufacturer – Merck and Schering-Plough. Millions of Americans take Zetia along with a statin (Lipitor, Crestor, or Zocor) or Vytorin – which is a combination pill of Zetia and Zocor. By not publishing this information Zetia’s manufacturers have been misleading medical professionals as well as the public about the safety and benefits of Zetia.
Other risks have also been associated with the use of Zetia. They include the potential to cause hepatitis, pancreatitis, and depression. These risks have been warned against in other countries (Canada and Australia) but have been seemingly ignored in the United States. In June 2003, Zetia was also linked to allergic reactions. This included angioedema - a skin disease that is identified by patches of swelling of the hands, feet, lips, and eyelids as well as swelling of the mucous membranes and the viscera. In severe cases these reactions can be fatal.
In addition to the risks associated with Zetia / ezetimibe, new information has also been released questioning the drugs overall effectiveness. Also released in January 2008, was information showing that Zetia has no benefit on the buildup of arterial plaque when compared to patients taking only statin drugs.
The ineffectiveness of the drug is concerning for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is especially concerning to patients who are at high risk of heart attack and stroke as their medicine may not be working as it should. Secondly, Zeita is significantly more expensive than the generic version of the statin drug Zocor (simvastatin). This means Americans everywhere have been paying millions of unnecessary dollars for an ineffective, risk causing, drug.
The combination of these factors has lead to a class action lawsuit being filed against the manufacturer of Zetia. This lawsuit alleges that makers of Zetia have known since 2006 that Zetia is no more effective than Zocor, but have continued to lead consumers to believe Zetia is more effective.
If you have experienced life altering side effects due to the consumption of Zetia our class action lawyers may be able to help you receive compensation. Click
here for more information about the lawsuit, or fill out our
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