Combination therapy with ezetimibe and simvastatin to achieve aggressive LDL reduction. (July 2006)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Robinson, Jennifer G; Davidson, Michael H
• Is Part Of: Expert review of cardiovascular therapy. Volume 4:Number 4(2006)
• Page Start: 461
• Page End: 476
• Publication Date: 2006-07
• Subjects: cardiovascular disease -- cholesterol absorption -- ezetimibe -- lipids -- risk reduction -- statin; Cardiovascular agents -- Research -- Periodicals; 616.12061
• DOI: 10.1586/14779072.4.4.461
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-9072

Abstract

A low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol goal of less than 100 mg/dl is recommended for patients at moderate to high risk of cardiovascular disease with an optional LDL goal of less than 70 mg/dl for patients at a very high risk of cardiovascular disease. Most patients will require reductions in LDL of more than 50% in order to achieve these more aggressive goals. Only a few agents will lower LDL by at least 50%. This review will focus on the efficacy and safety ezetimibe/simvastatin coadministered as a therapy with enhanced LDL-lowering efficacy, while minimizing the adverse effects of statins in a wide range of patients. Ezetimibe 10 mg/simvastatin 80 mg lowers LDL by approximately 60% and has been demonstrated to be superior to the highest doses of atorvastatin and rosuvastatin for lowering LDL and raising high-density lipoprotein.