Zetia Fails To Slow Plaque Growth

A newer drug to reduce cholesterol does not slow the growth of plaque in arteries, a new study has found. The study used the newer drug Zetia as part of a two-drug pill called Vytorin. Vytorin contains Zetia and an older drug, a statin called Zocor. Both Zetia and Zocor reduce LDL cholesterol. The two-year study included 720 people. They were given either Vytorin (the two-pill combo) or Zocor alone. People actually had slightly more plaque growth with Vytorin than with Zocor. Merck and Schering-Plough sell the drug. They announced the study results January 14. The New York Times and USA Today reported on the story.