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Ezetimibe is a medication that helps lower levels of cholesterol in the body. Its mechanism of action is different from other cholesterol-lowering drugs like statins, which work primarily in the liver. Ezetimibe works in the digestive tract, where it blocks the absorption of cholesterol. Specifically, it targets the Niemann-Pick C1-Like 1 (NPC1L1) protein in the brush border of the small intestine. NPC1L1 is critical for the uptake of dietary and biliary cholesterol from the intestine. By blocking the NPC1L1 protein, ezetimibe prevents cholesterol from being absorbed into the body, and as a result, less cholesterol ends up in the bloodstream. This helps to reduce the overall levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and can reduce the risk of developing atherosclerotic plaques, which are associated with heart disease. It should be noted that ezetimibe doesn't inhibit the absorption of triglycerides, fat-soluble vitamins, or other important nutrients. It is also often used in comb

  Pioglitazone (Thiazolidinediones / TZDs / PPARγ activators) GENERAL EFFECTS: Pioglitazone, and Thiazolidinediones (TZD) in general, is a unique class of glucose-lowering drugs that function as PPAR-gamma activators, improving insulin sensitivity and target many features of aging and T2D ( 2021 ).  Across studies in diabetics and non-diabetics, Pioglitazone Helps lower fasting insulin levels and insulin resistance significantly.  Reduces the levels of chronic inflammation significantly with effects additive to a Statin ( 2010 ). Reduces visceral fat ( 2005 ), specifically in the liver, helping resolve conditions like NASH ( 2010 , 2018 ). Boosts adiponectin production. On the negative side, Pioglitazone  Increases subcutaneous fat and fluid retention by redistributing fat from visceral to subcutaneous areas ( 2005 ). Increases body weight but this side effect can be managed by keeping the dose low (e.g. 7.5mg daily) ( 2006 , 2018 , 2022 ).  Is associated with increased rates of heart