Merck, SML1629-25MG, Ezetimibe

Biochem/physiol Actions
Ezetimibe inhibits intestinal cholesterol absorption by preventing cholesterol uptake by Niemann-Pick C1 Like 1 (NPC1L1) protein that was found critical for the intestinal absorption of cholesterol. Ezetimibe selectvely blocks cholesterol absorption without inhibiting pancreatic lipolytic enzyme activities in the intestinal lumen.
Ezetimibe is a non statin drug that reduces intestinal cholesterol absorption. In addition, it also has an ability to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients who had had an acute coronary syndrome and whose low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol values were within guideline recommendations.
Preparation Note
For solubility in aqueous buffer, Ezetimibe should be dissolved in ethanol followed by dilution with the buffer.