Ezetimibe: Integrating Established Use with New Evidence - A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Purpose of review: To consolidate key information on the efficacy and safety of ezetimibe, with a focus on the latest evidence.

Recent findings: While ezetimibe has long been used alongside statins to help achieve lipid goals when statins are insufficient or in statin-intolerant patients, recent studies confirm and extend its benefits. Ezetimibe, when added to statins, is now recognized as an effective option for high-risk cardiovascular patients. Additionally, for those intolerant to statins, it can be combined with bempedoic acid, offering significant LDL cholesterol reduction. Ezetimibe's favourable tolerability, with fewer side effects than statins, along with the availability of fixed-dose combinations, enhances both treatment efficacy and patient adherence. Overall, this review underscores ezetimibe's evolving role in lipid management, providing valuable guidance for optimizing cardiovascular risk reduction strategies.

Keywords: Combination therapy; Ezetimibe; Statin intolerance; Treatment adherence.