title: Ezetimibe and low density lipoprotein subfractions: an ongoing debate.
abstract: There is evidence that small dense low density lipoprotein (sdLDL) subfractions are more atherogenic than buoyant LDL. Therefore, it is relevant to assess the effect of lipid lowering drugs on LDL subfractions. In this editorial we discuss the effect of ezetimibe (EZE; a cholesterol transport inhibitor) alone or in combination with a statin, on sdLDL levels. We conclude that, based on currently available evidence, more studies are needed before a definitive answer can be provided regarding the effect of EZE on sdLDL levels.
authors.forename: Niki
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Katsiki
authors.forename: Vasilis G
authors.initials: VG
authors.lastname: Athyros
authors.forename: Asterios
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Karagiannis
authors.forename: Dimitri P
authors.initials: DP
authors.lastname: Mikhailidis
mesh_terms: D000924:Anticholesteremic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001384:Azetidines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005591:Chemical Fractionation; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000097:blood / Q000737:chemistry; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL / Q000097:blood / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000187:drug effects*; D034462:Dissent and Disputes; D000069438:Ezetimibe; D006801:Humans; D006937:Hypercholesterolemia / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008077:Lipoproteins, LDL / Q000097:blood / Q000737:chemistry; D010316:Particle Size; D011379:Prognosis; D019821:Simvastatin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology
chemical_list: D000924:Anticholesteremic Agents; D001384:Azetidines; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D008077:Lipoproteins, LDL; D002784:Cholesterol; D019821:Simvastatin; D000069438:Ezetimibe