ATR EZ

ATR-EZ from Knoll combines atorvastatin 10 mg and ezetimibe 10 mg in a single tablet. It tackles high cholesterol from two angles — both how much the liver makes and how much the intestine absorbs.

• High LDL cholesterol that has not come down enough with a statin alone
• Mixed lipid problems (high cholesterol with high triglycerides)
• Long-term heart-disease risk reduction in selected patients

Atorvastatin lowers cholesterol production in the liver by blocking the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme. Ezetimibe works in the small intestine, stopping cholesterol from food and bile from being absorbed. The two together usually drop LDL more than either drug on its own.

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, once a day with or without food, ideally at the same time each day. Combine with a low-fat diet and regular exercise.

• Muscle pain, soreness or weakness
• Headache
• Diarrhoea or stomach upset
• Tiredness
• Mild rise in liver enzymes

Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding and active liver disease. Tell your doctor if you have kidney issues, thyroid problems or if you take cyclosporine, fibrates or blood thinners. Limit alcohol and grapefruit juice. Periodic liver tests may be advised.

Store below 25 degrees Celsius in a dry place, away from sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.