Vytorin Side Effects - Are They Really Rare?

Statins are known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, and work in the liver to slow the development of cholesterol. Studies have indicated that statin drugs tend to work best at lowering LDL, or bad cholesterol, but tend to not be as effective at reducing triglyceride levels. A few of the current statin drugs on the market are: atorvastatin (Lipitor) , fluvastatin (Lescol), lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), simvastatin (Zocor), and rosuvastatin (Crestor). Another, Vytorin, is a combination of Zetia (ezetimibe) and the statin drug Zocor (simvastatin). In an unsettling FDA report in January 2008, it was noted that Vytorin did not reduce atherosclerotic plaque any better that simvastin given alone, and in some cases actually resulted in an increase in plaque. Beyond common side effects such as headaches and nausea, the more serious side effects of statins include extreme muscle pain and muscle disease (statin induced myopathy), as well as serious liver problems.

As the liver increases the production of bile, the body will use up more cholesterol. A few of the resin type drugs on the market are Cholestyramine (Questran®, Questran® Light, Prevalite®, Locholest®, Locholest® Light), Colesevelam Hcl (WelChol®), and Colestipol (Colestid®).

Fibrates are termed fibric acid derivatives and tend to be best at lowering triglycerides. They are usually prescribed for patients with high triglyceride levels and low HDL levels and may be used in conjunction with statins. A few of the fibrate drugs on the market are: Gemfibrozil (Lopid®), Clofibrate (Atromid-S), and Fenofibrate (Antara®, Lofibra®, Tricor®, and Triglide(TM)).

Niacin in the form of nicotinic acid works by affecting the production of blood fats in the liver. I also have trouble with anxiety and clear thought process. I am praying so very hard that these side effects will clear up. Some have gotten better but today the muscle weakness was terrible. Is it possible for the side effects to come and go?"

Another sufferer of Vytorin Side Effects reported this:

As well, you should know that just because there is a very common connection between Zetia and hair loss - as well as other medications of this sort and hair loss - this certainly does not necessarily mean that you are definitely going to experience it.

So it does not mean that you should be all worried because you think that it is definitely going to happen in your case, but more so just make sure that you understand about it and that you are prepared, so that you do not get frightened if it does happen to you once you start taking it.

You should also know that there are counter measures that you can take, for instance your doctor can prescribe you other medications that you can take with the Zetia medication, which will hopefully prevent you from experiencing any of the side effects, however again this is not definite and so you really cannot expect anything too positive or be sure of anything until you actually go ahead and try it out.

I have been off the medication for 1 week now and I am still suffering from muscle pain, burning and numbness.

I have been dizzy and having visual problems. I also have trouble with anxiety and clear thought process. I am praying so very hard that these side effects will clear up. Some have gotten better but today the muscle weakness was terrible.