See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Ezetimibe
When Will Ezetimibe Go Generic?
Ezetimibe is currently available as a generic medication in many markets. The patent for ezetimibe expired in 2013 [1][2]. This allowed for the introduction of generic versions of the drug, which typically leads to a significant decrease in cost [3].
What Is Ezetimibe Used For?
Ezetimibe is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood [4]. It works by reducing the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine [4]. It is often prescribed to patients who cannot reach their cholesterol goals with statins alone or for those who cannot tolerate statins [4]. Ezetimibe is also available in combination with simvastatin, a statin, to further reduce cholesterol [4].
How Does Ezetimibe Work?
Ezetimibe targets cholesterol absorption in the small intestine. It selectively inhibits the absorption of dietary and biliary cholesterol by binding to the Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1 (NPC1L1) protein located on the brush border of enterocytes [5]. By reducing cholesterol absorption, ezetimibe leads to decreased delivery of intestinal cholesterol to the liver, resulting in upregulated LDL receptor expression and increased clearance of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream [5].
What Is the Cost of Generic Ezetimibe?
The cost of generic ezetimibe varies depending on the manufacturer, dosage, and pharmacy. However, generic medications are generally substantially less expensive than their brand-name counterparts [3]. For example, the average retail price for a 30-day supply of generic ezetimibe 10 mg can range from approximately $10 to $40, whereas the brand-name version, Zetia, was considerably more expensive before going generic [3][6]. Online pharmacies and discount programs may offer further savings [3].
Who Manufactures Generic Ezetimibe?
Numerous pharmaceutical companies manufacture generic versions of ezetimibe. Some of the common manufacturers include Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan (now part of Viatris), Aurobindo Pharma, and Cipla [7]. These companies produce ezetimibe that is bioequivalent to the original brand-name drug, meaning it has the same active ingredient, dosage form, strength, and route of administration [8].
What Are the Potential Side Effects of Ezetimibe?
Like all medications, ezetimibe can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects reported include diarrhea, fatigue, stomach pain, and headache [4][9]. Less common but more serious side effects may include muscle pain or weakness, liver problems, or allergic reactions [4][9]. Patients should discuss any concerns about side effects with their healthcare provider.
How Does Ezetimibe Compare to Statins?
Ezetimibe works differently from statins. Statins primarily inhibit cholesterol production in the liver, while ezetimibe reduces cholesterol absorption in the intestine [4][5]. Ezetimibe is often used in combination with statins to achieve greater reductions in LDL cholesterol than either drug can achieve alone [4]. It can also be an option for patients who cannot tolerate statins due to side effects [4].
Sources
1. Ezetimibe patent expiration. DrugPatentWatch.com.
2. Ezetimibe. DrugPatentWatch.com.
3. Understanding Generic Drugs. U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
4. Ezetimibe. National Library of Medicine.
5. Ezetimibe: a novel approach to lipid-lowering therapy. National Library of Medicine.
6. Zetia Prices, Coupons & Patient Assistance Programs. Drugs.com.
7. Ezetimibe. GoodRx.
8. Generic Drugs: Questions and Answers. U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
9. Ezetimibe Side Effects. Mayo Clinic.