Q. I am alarmed by recent reports that Vytorin and Zetia are associated with plaque build-up in the carotid artery. My doctor tells me that until more is known, I should continue taking the prescribed medicine. Do you agree? Is it harmful to switch abruptly to another cholesterol-lowering medicine such as simvastatin?
A. In the wake of the ENHANCE study that produced such disappointing results with Vytorin, the American College of Cardiology convened an expert panel to advise their colleagues. These thought leaders suggest that doctors should stick with statin-type cholesterol-lowering drugs, which have a proven track record.
Until there is more convincing data about Vytorin or Zetia, the cardiologists recommend using them only as a last resort. There should be no danger switching to simvastatin since it has been shown to be effective.
Redirected 7/3/17 to: https://www.peoplespharmacy.com/articles/zetia-may-cause/
