Concerns about Zetia

[HubbleRules]

All,

I was just reading today in the New York Times that it's been revealed that Merck has conducted several trials of Zetia, used in combination with Statins, that raise questions about it's effect on the liver, but never published those studies.

Also, in the ENHANCE trial that they did publish, and which the FDA relied upon in approving the drug, some people who developed liver problems during the trial were dropped from the trial and their results excluded from it - and this fact was never included in the study results.

The article stated that studies have indicated that taking Zetia in combination with a Statin results in an 11 times greater chance of health problems than taking a Statin alone.

Canada has explicit warnings on Zetia and Vytorin notifying people of the potential for liver damage - but the FDA does not require these warnings on the drugs sold in the U.S.

Just a word of warning...

HubblRules

[JJ]

Hi Hubble.....I'm not surprised, as they seem to be pushing that Zetia and Vytorin alot. My old dr. tried insisting on me taking the Zetia, but I refused it. After taking the few statins I did, and getting so sick, I swore off of them..PERIOD! Reminds me of the old Baycol thing, which I have first hand knowledge of that lousy drug.

Thanks for the post, and by the way, Merry Christmas, and a very Happy and healthy New Year.

[HubbleRules]

Originally Posted by JJ

Thanks for the post, and by the way, Merry Christmas, and a very Happy and healthy New Year.

JJ,

Hi - haven't seen you posting lately - welcome back!!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you also!!!

Put that 'Flipper' movie on and dream about Beach Bumming....

HubbleRules

[JJ]

Yeah Hubble, seems the old crew went by the wayside. Hope all is well with you and the family. Same old, same old here, but we are still kicking.

Definately want to kick back and think of spring, already have had too much ice and freezing temps. Give me that Beach Bum life for sure.

Keep healthy, and enjoy your holidays.

[HubbleRules]

All,

There's more bad news for Zetia (and Vytorin) in the papers today.

They did a new trial that "failed to show that the drug had any medical benefits".

It reduces cholesterol by 10-15%, but when combined with Zocor, it actually increases the rate at which arterial plaques form over using Zocor alone.

Whoever is taking Zetia or Vytorin should do some research <removed>

HubbleRules