|
Home : Unsafe Drugs : Zetia : Law Articles : New Study Shows Zetia Not As Effective As Claimed New Study Shows Zetia Not As Effective As ClaimedZetia, a popular cholesterol drug manufactured by Merck, is under fire thanks to a recent study that suggests the drug is not as effective as advertised. Although the active ingredient ezetimibe has been shown to reduce cholesterol slightly, it is not as effective as Niacin, a cheap vitamin B drug. Additionally, the study states that no evidence exists that the drugs can prevent heart attacks, strokes or other cardiovascular diseases, in contrast to its leading competitors. Zetia is a break through cholesterol medication that blocks cholesterol absorbtion in the intestines whereas its competitors, Lipitor, Zocor and other statin-type drugs, block cholesterol production in the liver. This difference has boosted Zetia's popularity - to the tune of $4 billion this year alone - although how it reduces cholesterol is not completely known. Many patients who cannot tolerate the side effects of statins, including liver problems, are often prescribed Zetia and its sister drug, Vytorin, as a last resort. Previous studies have also questioned the drug's effectiveness, which has led some to believe the Food and Drug Administration was too hasty in approving the drug - especially without requiring additional studies that demonstrate the drug's ability to prevent heart attacks. Merck has start researching the drug's ability to prevent heart attacks, but results are not expected to be available until at least 2012. This leaves many doctors in limbo about what to prescribe patients with high cholesterol. Oftentimes, patients pursue a Zetia lawsuit to seek monetary compensation to cover medical treatments due to cardiovascular complications. If you or a loved one has questions regarding a potential Zetia Law suit, you may contact one of our experienced Zetia Law firms. A Zetia Lawyer can provide you with updates on Zetia Side Effects or a possible Zetia Recall. Contact a Zetia Attorney using the form at the top of the page. |




