Ezetimibe/simvastatin (INEGY) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia

Ezetimibe/simvastatin (INEGY), a dual inhibitor of both cholesterol production and absorption, is a new approach to the management of hyperlipidaemia. Recent studies have shown that it produces greater reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol than the single inhibition of statin therapy, enabling many more patients to achieve their LDL cholesterol treatment goals. With ezetimibe/simvastatin therapy, reductions of up to 61% from baseline have been seen in LDL cholesterol, with clear improvements in other associated lipid fractions. It has been well tolerated across all studies, with a safety profile similar to that of statin therapy. This article will review clinical experience to date with ezetimibe/simvastatin, commenting upon its place and potential value in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.