Common side effects of ezetimibe include:
- Upper respiratory tract infections (such as sore throat, runny nose, and sinusitis)[1]
- Diarrhea[1]
- Joint pain[1]
- Muscle pain[2]
- Pain in the arms or legs[1]
- Fatigue or tiredness[2]
- Back pain[2]
- Nausea[2]
- Headache[2]
- Dizziness[2]
Mild side effects usually resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. These include temporary reactions like fever, minor muscle aches, sore throat, and cold symptoms[3].
Serious side effects of ezetimibe, though less common, require medical attention:
- Severe muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis), muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness[2]
- Liver damage (hepatitis) or increased liver enzymes, especially when combined with statins[2]
- Serious allergic reactions (such as hives, facial swelling, trouble breathing, or swallowing)[1]
- Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis)[2]
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)[2]
- Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia)[2]
If you experience muscle pain, dark urine, severe weakness, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or signs of a serious allergic reaction, contact your healthcare provider immediately[1].
Most side effects tend to improve over time. Serious effects, such as muscle or liver damage, may be irreversible and require stopping the medication[2]. About 3% of clinical trial participants discontinued ezetimibe due to side effects, mainly joint pain or dizziness[2].
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