Doubts about cholesterol drugs Zetia and Vytorin

A small study is stirring up big questions about ezetimibe, the active ingredient in the popular cholesterol medicines Zetia and Vytorin.

Experts say it is clear that the drugs lower so-called bad cholesterol. But a new study suggests that a common form of vitamin B works better to reduce artery plaque and prevent heart attack and stroke. Drug maker Merck & Co. called the study “flawed.”

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