Vytorin reduces the amount of cholesterol (a type of fat) absorbed by the body and blocks the production of cholesterol in the body.

Vytorin is used to reduce the total amounts of cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides (another type of fat), and apolipoprotein B (a protein needed to make cholesterol) in your blood.

Vytorin is also used to increase the level of HDL (good) cholesterol in your blood. These actions may reduce the risk

Vytorin contains the active ingredients ezetimibe and simvastatin, which is a new type of medicine used to lower high cholesterol levels. Vytorin is known as a cholesterol absorption inhibitor.

Vytorin works, as the name suggests, by preventing cholesterol from being absorbed from the small intestine into the bloodstream. Vytorin prevents cholesterol and other plant sterols that are consumed in the diet from being absorbed, and also prevents cholesterol

Take Vytorin once a day with or without food. It may be easier to remember to take Vytorin if you take it at the same time every day.

Vytorin should be taken 2 hours before or 4 hours after a bile acid sequestrant such as cholestyramine, colestipol, or colesevelam.

For high cholesterol

Adults
1 tablet a day of Vytorin , tablet strength is determined by your doctor.

Children
Your doctor must determine use and dose of Vytorin.

If

If you have been prescribed Vytorin, you should take Vytorin at least two hours before, or at least four hours after taking the cholestyramine or colestipol. This is because these medicines can make Vytorin less effective if they are taken at the same time.

Vytorin is not recommended for people taking fibrate medicines to lower cholesterol, e.g. bezafibrate, gemfibrozil.

Cyclosporine may increase the body s exposure to Vytorin .

Most Important Fact about Vytorin
Check with your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if it is accompanied by unusual tiredness or fever, because Vytorin s adverse effects on muscle can lead to serious kidney problems.

Vytorin precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Vytorin must not be used during pregnancy. Vytorin should only be used during pregnancy if considered essential by your doctor. This is because its safety

More common side effects of Vytorin may include:

• constipation
• headache
• upset stomach,
• indigestion,
• gas,
• heartburn

Less common or rare side effects of Vytorin may include:

• dark yellow or brown urine
• decreased urination,
• difficulty passing urine
• fever
• muscle pain,
• tenderness, cramps, or weakness
• redness,
• blistering,
• peeling or loosening
  Top | Read More on Possible Vytorin Side effects