Zetia does not lower cholestrol
The Drug Zetia (Ezetimibe) is being questioned about its efficacy. Zetia is taken by millions of individuals all over the world to lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, a recent study known as the ARBITER-6-HALTS trial was stopped early this summer when it was discovered that Zetia was much less effective than another older cholesterol lowering medication, niacin. While niacin reduced cholesterol and the number of heart attacks, Zetia did nothing. Said Dr Allen Taylor, director of advanced Cardiovascular imaging and lipid prevention clinic at Washington hospital, in Washington Dc, “This trial provides a clear and undeniable statement on the superior clinical effectiveness of niacin over ezetimibe,”
“This trial showed the clear superiority of niacin over ezetimibe. I would say that the combination of LDL-lowering and HDL-increasing with niacin was associated with a greater regression of atherosclerosis,” added Dr. John J.P. Kastelein, from Department of Vascular Medicine, Academic Medical Center, Meibergdreef, the Netherlands.
However, despite the lack of efficacy, Dr Robert Eckel from the AHA recommends waiting for safety results from a larger ongoing trial involving Zetia, and emphasized that at least the drug is safe and there is no clear indication to cease taking it.
“I would caution the public and prescribing community about reaching conclusions too early,” he said. “At this point, there is no evidence that the drug does harm. I see no reason at this point to be concerned about using ezetimibe as an LDL-lowering therapy as an option for patients who need a further decision made about their treatment.”
In the meantime, the public is urged not to rush and buy the over the counter niacin to reduce blood cholesterol because long term safety remains unknown.
