The prescription drug Zetia – also known as Ezetimibe – helps lower concentrations of high plasma cholesterol levels. Generally speaking, most drugs that help lower cholesterol are known as statins. These drugs help by lowering levels of cholesterol production by the liver. Zetia, however, works by lowering the amount of cholesterol absorbed by the small intestine. Approved by the FDA for use in October 2002, Zetia has been helping lower the levels of harmful cholesterol in people for over a decade.

What is Zetia?

Zetia is an expensive medication without insurance. The average price, without insurance, copay cards, coupons, or prescription assistance programs is around $500. Coupons and copay cards can help and can generally be found online. A powerful tool that is used by uninsured and under-insured Americans is the help generated by prescription assistance programs. These programs can often offer more savings than just a coupon alone. Zetia can be used with other drugs such as statins and fibrates, or can also be used alone. Reducing unhealthy levels of cholesterol in your body can help lower the risk of certain health complications such as heart attacks and strokes.

Lowering High Cholesterol

Zetia, when combined with lifestyle changes and healthy choices, can significantly improve your quality of life. Reducing your risk of heart disease should be your number one priority if you have high blood pressure and cholesterol. Try the recommendations listed below; consult with your doctor when starting Zetia and other major lifestyle changes.

1. Quit Smoking

If you’re a smoker, it’s time to throw in the towel. Smoking can increase your levels of cholesterol and your blood pressure and heart rate spike every time you smoke a cigarette. Studies show that blood circulation, lung function, and quality of life begin to improve within three months of quitting cigarette smoking. After a year of smoking cessation, the risk of heart disease is half that of a current smoker.

2. Lower Alcohol Consumption

Moderate to high levels of alcohol consumption has been linked to negative effects on cholesterol and functioning. If you are going to drink, make sure that you exercise moderation. For men, that is around two drinks a day, and for women it is one drink a day. An excessive amount of alcohol can lead to conditions such as high blood pressure, alcoholism, strokes, heart failure, and a decrease quality of life.

3. Lose Weight

Carrying extra weight isn’t good for you! If you’re craving a snack, reach for an apple or some lean protein. Try to avoid sugary drinks, processed foods, and processed sugar. Try starting a daily exercise routine, and do small things such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Excessive amounts of sugar begin to add up, and extra pounds will contribute to higher levels of cholesterol. Try to perform more yardwork, increase your standing activities, and take walk breaks during work. Eat heart healthy foods such as foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids, legumes, vegetables, fruits, whey protein, foods that contain soluble fiber, and lean proteins.

4. Start an Exercise Regimen

Increase your physical daily activity. Even moderate amounts of physical activity can help raised the HDL (high-density lipoproteins) cholesterol, which is often referred to as the “good cholesterol”. Adding 30 minutes of aerobic or anaerobic exercise five times a week can greatly improve your cholesterol levels. Try playing a group sport or activity, take more daily walks, or ride your bike to work if its close enough! Always ask your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.

Zetia Side Effects

Zetia, like any medication, comes with a risk of side effects. The most common side effects of Zetia include:

• Stuffy nose
• Diarrhea
• Head Ache
• Joint pain
• Viral infection of the throat, nose, or airways

If any of the following serious side effects occur, call your doctor or 911 if you feel like the symptoms are life-threatening:

• Liver problems such as pain in your abdomen or yellowing of the eyes or skin.
• Severe muscle problems that can manifest in fever, confusion, nausea and vomiting, dark-colored urine, unexplained muscle pain in your shoulder, thigs, or lower back, and trouble moving your arms and legs because of weakness.

Zetia Prescription Assistance

Are you an uninsured or under-insured American struggling to pay for the cost of their prescription medications? Advocate My Meds is a prescription assistance program referral service that has helped thousands of Americans get the medication they need at a price that makes sense. We work with the country’s doctors, advocacy programs, pharmaceutical companies, and community outreach programs to help get you your medications for little to no cost. If you need help paying for Zetia, visit our contact page or call us at (878) 870-0851 to talk with one of our representatives today!