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Simvastatin/Ezetimibe

dr.Frank L.J. Visseren · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Simvastatin inhibits cholesterol synthesis while ezetimibe blocks dietary cholesterol absorption, together reducing LDL cholesterol levels.

Simvastatin inhibits cholesterol synthesis while ezetimibe blocks dietary cholesterol absorption, together reducing LDL cholesterol levels. Used for Hypercholesterolemia and dyslipidemia, Reduction of cardiovascular risk in patients with elevated cholesterol.

At a glance

Generic nameSimvastatin/Ezetimibe
Also known asSimvastatin/Ezetimibe (Zetia), Vytorin
Sponsordr.Frank L.J. Visseren
Drug classStatin/Ezetimibe combination
TargetHMG-CoA reductase; NPC1L1 transporter
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaCardiovascular
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Simvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor that decreases endogenous cholesterol production in the liver. Ezetimibe selectively inhibits cholesterol absorption in the small intestine by blocking the Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) transporter. The combination provides complementary mechanisms to achieve greater LDL-C reduction than either agent alone.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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