How does simvastatin 40 mg work to lower cholesterol. What are the potential side effects of simvastatin. How should simvastatin be taken for maximum effectiveness. What precautions should be considered when using simvastatin.

Understanding Simvastatin: A Powerful Cholesterol-Lowering Medication

Simvastatin is a widely prescribed medication belonging to the class of drugs known as statins. Its primary function is to help lower “bad” cholesterol and fats in the blood while simultaneously raising “good” cholesterol levels. This dual action makes it an essential tool in the fight against heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks.

But how exactly does simvastatin work? The medication operates by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. This mechanism of action effectively lowers LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. The result is a significant decrease in the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Key Benefits of Simvastatin

• Lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
• Raises HDL cholesterol
• Decreases risk of heart disease
• Helps prevent strokes and heart attacks
• Works in conjunction with lifestyle changes for optimal results

Proper Usage and Dosage Instructions for Simvastatin

Taking simvastatin correctly is crucial for achieving optimal results. The medication is typically prescribed to be taken once daily in the evening. Can simvastatin be taken with food? Yes, the tablet form can be taken with or without food. However, if you’re using the liquid form, it’s recommended to take it on an empty stomach.

For those using the liquid form, proper administration is key. Shake the bottle well for at least 20 seconds before each dose and use a special measuring device to ensure accurate dosing. The usual maximum dose is 40 milligrams per day, but your doctor may adjust this based on your individual needs and medical condition.

Important Dosage Considerations

1. Take simvastatin at the same time each day for consistency
2. Do not increase your dose without consulting your doctor
3. Continue taking the medication even if you feel well
4. It may take up to 4 weeks to experience the full benefits
5. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking simvastatin unless approved by your doctor

Potential Side Effects: What to Watch For

While simvastatin is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Most people using this medication do not experience serious side effects, but vigilance is key to ensuring your health and safety.

Are there any common side effects of simvastatin? Some individuals may experience mild memory problems or confusion, although these effects are rare. Additionally, there’s a small risk that statins may cause or worsen diabetes. It’s crucial to discuss these potential risks with your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Immediate Attention

• Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness)
• Signs of kidney problems (such as changes in urine output)
• Symptoms of liver problems (nausea, vomiting, yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine, abdominal pain)
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)

If you experience any of these serious side effects, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Remember, the benefits of taking simvastatin often outweigh the risks for most patients, but staying informed and vigilant is essential for your health.

Lifestyle Changes to Enhance Simvastatin’s Effectiveness

While simvastatin is a powerful tool in managing cholesterol levels, its effectiveness can be significantly enhanced when combined with appropriate lifestyle changes. These modifications not only support the medication’s action but also contribute to overall cardiovascular health.

What lifestyle changes can improve simvastatin’s effectiveness? Adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking are all crucial steps. These changes work synergistically with simvastatin to reduce cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.

Key Lifestyle Modifications

1. Follow a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet
2. Engage in regular exercise (at least 30 minutes most days of the week)
3. Maintain a healthy body weight
4. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
5. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation

By incorporating these lifestyle changes, you’re not only supporting the action of simvastatin but also taking proactive steps towards better overall health. Remember, these modifications should be undertaken in consultation with your healthcare provider to ensure they’re appropriate for your individual situation.

Interactions and Precautions: Ensuring Safe Use of Simvastatin

Before starting simvastatin, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re currently taking. Certain substances can interact with simvastatin, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Are there any medications that should not be taken with simvastatin? Yes, several medications can interact negatively with simvastatin. These include certain antibiotics, antifungal medications, HIV protease inhibitors, and other cholesterol-lowering drugs. It’s essential to provide your doctor with a complete list of all substances you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Key Precautions and Considerations

• Inform your doctor of any allergies or sensitivities
• Discuss your medical history, especially liver disease, kidney disease, or diabetes
• Avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol while taking simvastatin
• Be cautious when engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you
• Inform your doctor if you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

By being proactive and transparent about your medical history and current medications, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of simvastatin. Remember, your healthcare provider is your best resource for personalized advice and guidance.

Monitoring and Follow-up: Ensuring Optimal Treatment Outcomes

Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential components of simvastatin therapy. These checks allow your healthcare provider to assess the medication’s effectiveness, adjust the dosage if necessary, and monitor for potential side effects.

How often should cholesterol levels be checked while taking simvastatin? Typically, your doctor will recommend blood tests to check your cholesterol levels and liver function every 3 to 6 months, or as deemed necessary based on your individual situation. These tests help ensure that the medication is working effectively and not causing any adverse effects on your liver.

Key Aspects of Monitoring and Follow-up

1. Regular blood tests to check cholesterol levels and liver function
2. Periodic assessments of muscle health, especially if experiencing muscle pain or weakness
3. Discussions about any new symptoms or side effects experienced
4. Evaluation of overall cardiovascular health and risk factors
5. Adjustments to medication dosage or treatment plan as needed

Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. Don’t hesitate to report any new symptoms or concerns, even if they seem minor. This proactive approach ensures that your treatment remains optimized and tailored to your specific needs.

Long-term Use of Simvastatin: What to Expect

Simvastatin is often prescribed as a long-term medication to manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Understanding what to expect from long-term use can help patients maintain their commitment to the treatment plan and achieve optimal health outcomes.

Does simvastatin need to be taken indefinitely? In many cases, yes. Cholesterol-lowering medications like simvastatin are typically prescribed for long-term use because they address an ongoing health concern. However, the duration of treatment can vary based on individual factors and should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Long-term Considerations and Benefits

• Consistent cholesterol management over time
• Reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attacks
• Potential for dose adjustments based on long-term response
• Ongoing monitoring for rare but potential long-term side effects
• Opportunity to assess and adjust lifestyle factors for optimal health

While the prospect of long-term medication use may seem daunting, it’s important to remember that simvastatin plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health for many individuals. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure that the benefits continue to outweigh any potential risks over time.

Alternative Treatments and Complementary Approaches

While simvastatin is a highly effective medication for managing cholesterol levels, it’s not the only option available. Some individuals may explore alternative treatments or complementary approaches, either in conjunction with or as an alternative to statin therapy.

Are there natural alternatives to simvastatin for lowering cholesterol? Yes, several natural approaches can help manage cholesterol levels. These include dietary changes, increased physical activity, and certain supplements. However, it’s crucial to note that these alternatives may not be as potent as statins and should be discussed with a healthcare provider before implementation.

Potential Alternatives and Complementary Approaches

1. Plant sterols and stanols (found in certain foods or supplements)
2. Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil or plant sources)
3. Soluble fiber (found in oats, beans, and certain fruits)
4. Red yeast rice (contains natural compounds similar to statins)
5. Regular exercise and weight management

It’s important to remember that while these alternatives can be beneficial, they may not be suitable or sufficient for everyone. Some individuals may require the potent cholesterol-lowering effects of simvastatin to effectively manage their cardiovascular risk. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.

In conclusion, simvastatin remains a cornerstone in the management of high cholesterol and cardiovascular risk. Its effectiveness, combined with a good safety profile, makes it a valuable tool in preventing heart disease and related complications. However, like any medication, it requires proper use, monitoring, and integration with a heart-healthy lifestyle for optimal results. By staying informed, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, and adhering to recommended guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of simvastatin therapy and take significant strides towards better cardiovascular health.

Simvastatin Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Simvastatin is used along with a proper diet to help lower “bad” cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and raise “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It belongs to a group of drugs known as “statins.” It works by reducing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver. Lowering “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides and raising “good” cholesterol decreases the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks.In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.

How to use Simvastatin

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking simvastatin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the evening. If you are using the tablet form of this medication, you may take this medication with or without food.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, take this medication on an empty stomach. Shake the bottle well for at least 20 seconds before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

The usual maximum dose for this medication is 40 milligrams a day. If you have been instructed by your doctor to take more than 40 milligrams, continue on that same dose. However, promptly talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of your higher dose.

Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol or triglycerides do not feel sick.

It is very important to continue to follow your doctor’s advice about diet and exercise. It may take up to 4 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Side Effects

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very small number of people taking simvastatin may have mild memory problems or confusion. If these rare effects occur, talk to your doctor.

Rarely, statins may cause or worsen diabetes. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks.

This drug may rarely cause muscle problems (which can rarely lead to very serious conditions called rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy). Older adults and Chinese people may be at higher risk. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any of these symptoms during treatment and if these symptoms last after your doctor stops this drug: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).

This medication may rarely cause liver problems. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems, including: nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, stomach/abdominal pain.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking simvastatin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, alcohol use.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Limit alcoholic beverages. Daily use of alcohol may increase your risk for liver problems, especially when combined with simvastatin. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially muscle problems.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

See also How to Use section.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: “blood thinners” (such as warfarin), cyclosporine, danazol, daptomycin, gemfibrozil.

Other medications can affect the removal of simvastatin from your body, which may affect how simvastatin works. Examples include certain azole antifungals (such as itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole), cobicistat, colchicine, macrolide antibiotics (such as clarithromycin, erythromycin), nefazodone, HIV protease inhibitors (such as nelfinavir), ritonavir, telithromycin, among others.

Chinese people should not take niacin at doses used to lower cholesterol (1 gram or more) when taking this medication. Doing so may increase the risk of side effects (especially muscle problems). Talk with your doctor for details.

Do not take any red yeast rice products while you are taking simvastatin because some red yeast rice products may also contain a statin called lovastatin. Taking simvastatin and red yeast rice products together can increase your risk of serious muscle and liver problems.

Does Simvastatin interact with other drugs you are taking?

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Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood cholesterol/triglyceride levels, liver function) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Discard the suspension form of this medication one month after opening the bottle, even if there is medication left. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

simvastatin 20 mg tablet

Color: light pinkShape: roundImprint: A 02

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

simvastatin 20 mg tablet

Color: tanShape: ovalImprint: LL C03

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: brick redShape: oblongImprint: LL C05

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: pinkShape: roundImprint: A 03

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: brownShape: roundImprint: RDY 200

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: brownShape: roundImprint: RDY 199

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: brownShape: roundImprint: RDY 198

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: brownShape: roundImprint: RDY 197

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: brick redShape: oblongImprint: SMV 80

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: brick redShape: ovalImprint: S 4

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: pinkShape: oblongImprint: A 04

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: pinkShape: oblongImprint: logo and 304 80

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: redShape: roundImprint: 7155 93

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: redShape: roundImprint: 7155 TV

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

simvastatin 20 mg tablet

Color: tanShape: roundImprint: 7154 TV

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Color: tanShape: roundImprint: 7154 93

This medicine is a light pink, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with “A” and “02”.

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Drug Survey

Are you currently using Simvastatin?

This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Side Effects, Dosage, Usage, and More

1. Simvastatin oral tablet is available as a brand-name drug and a generic drug. Brand name: Zocor.
2. Simvastatin comes in two forms: an oral tablet and an oral suspension.
3. Simvastatin oral tablet is used to help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It can also reduce the risk of heart disease.

• Myopathy and rhabdomyolysis warning: Simvastatin and other statin drugs can sometimes cause myopathy (muscle disease) or immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM). They can even cause rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown). Rhabdomyolysis can lead to kidney failure. You have an increased risk of each condition if you:
  • are an older adult
  • are female
  • have kidney disease
  • have low thyroid function
  • take high doses of this drug
  • take this drug with certain other drugs

Tell your doctor right away if you experience:

• unexplained muscle weakness or tenderness
• persistent muscle pain
• muscle pain or weakness that does not go away when this drug is stopped
• abdominal pain
• fever
• dark-colored urine

• Warning for liver disease and alcohol misuse: People with active liver disease should not use simvastatin. People with a history of alcohol abuse or liver disease should discuss the risks of this drug with their doctor. For people with these conditions, simvastatin can increase the risk of serious liver injury.

Simvastatin is a prescription drug. It comes in two forms: a tablet and a suspension. Both forms are taken by mouth.

Simvastatin oral tablet is available as the brand-name drug Zocor. It’s also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less than the brand-name version. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name drug.

Why it’s used

Simvastatin oral tablet is used to:

• lower low-density lipoprotein, or LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides in the body
• increase high-density lipoprotein, or HDL (good) cholesterol
• slow the development of heart disease and reduce the risk of stroke

How it works

Simvastatin belongs to the drug class known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, also called statins. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

Statins work to reduce the body’s cholesterol production. They also reduce the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides moving through the body. High cholesterol and triglycerides are associated with increased risk of:

• heart disease
• stroke
• heart attack

Statins are usually used in combination with lifestyle changes, such as changes to diet and exercise.

Simvastatin oral tablet doesn’t cause drowsiness, but it can cause other side effects.

More common side effects

The more common side effects that can occur with simvastatin include:

• headache
• nausea
• stomach pain
• constipation
• muscle pain or weakness
• joint pain
• upper respiratory infections

Serious side effects

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

• rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)
• severe muscle pain or weakness
• muscle pain or weakness that does not go away when this drug is stopped
• muscle spasms
• kidney failure
• liver toxicity
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• severe anemia
• severe allergic reaction, with symptoms such as fever and trouble breathing
• rash of any kind
• extreme sensitivity to the sun
• diarrhea
• feeling weak or very tired
• severe stomach pain
• severe nausea or vomiting
• severe swelling of the hands, feet, and ankles

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we can not guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.

Simvastatin oral tablet can interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well.

To help avoid interactions, your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, or herbs you’re taking. To find out how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Examples of drugs that can cause interactions with simvastatin are listed below.

Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors

These drugs block your body from breaking down simvastatin. This can lead to very high levels of the drug in your body. It can also increase side effects, including rhabdomyolysis.

These drugs should not be used with simvastatin. If treatment with these drugs is required, the use of simvastatin must be on hold during the course of treatment. Examples of these drugs include:

• ketoconazole
• itraconazole
• voriconazole
• posaconazole
• erythromycin
• clarithromycin
• telithromycin
• cyclosporine
• danazol
• nefazodone
• telaprevir
• ritonavir
• tipranavir
• indinavir
• fosamprenavir
• darunavir
• atazanavir
• nelfinavir
• cobicistat

Other cholesterol-lowering drugs

When used with simvastatin, some cholesterol drugs can increase side effects such as myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. If you use these drugs with simvastatin, your doctor may lower your dosage of simvastatin. Examples of these drugs include:

• gemfibrozil
• fenofibrate
• niacin
• lomitapide

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that, according to research, with niacin, the incidence of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis is higher when the drug is taken in larger doses and in people of Chinese descent.

Calcium channel blockers and other drugs that increase risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis

Using simvastatin with these drugs can increase the risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Your doctor may discuss other medication options or lower your dosage of simvastatin. Examples of calcium channel blockers include:

• amlodipine
• diltiazem
• verapamil

Do not take more than 10 mg of simvastatin with diltiazem or verapamil, or more than 20 mg of simvastatin with amlodipine.

Other drugs that increase risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis include:

• amiodarone
• dronedarone
• ranolazine

Heart drug

Digoxin is used to treat heart failure and arrhythmias. Taking simvastatin with digoxin can increase levels of digoxin in your body. If you’re taking both drugs, your doctor may want to monitor your digoxin level more closely.

Gout drug

Colchicine is a drug used to treat gout. Using simvastatin with colchicine can increase the risk of both myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

Warfarin (blood thinner)

When taken with warfarin, simvastatin can increase the blood-thinning effects of warfarin. This can lead to an increased risk of bleeding. Your doctor may want to monitor your warfarin level more closely if you’re taking these two drugs at the same time.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we can not guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare professional about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking.

This drug comes with several warnings.

Alcohol warning

People with a history of alcohol misuse and risk of liver disease should not take this drug. For people with these conditions, simvastatin can increase the risk of serious liver injury.

Food interaction warning

Avoid grapefruit juice while taking simvastatin. Grapefruit juice can increase simvastatin levels in your body and increase the risk of side effects.

Warnings for people with certain health conditions

For people with low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) or diabetes: Simvastatin and other statin drugs can sometimes cause rhabdomyolysis. Having hypothyroidism or diabetes raises your risk for this condition. Other risk factors include:

• being an older adult
• being female
• having kidney disease
• use of drugs that interact with simvastatin

Tell your doctor right away if you experience:

• unexplained muscle weakness or tenderness
• continuous muscle pain
• diarrhea
• fever
• dark-colored urine

For people with liver disease: People with active liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, should not use simvastatin.

Warnings for other groups

For pregnant people: In July 2021, the FDA requested that statins no longer be labeled as “contraindicated” in pregnancy. The FDA still recommends that most patients discontinue statins when they become pregnant. The contraindication was removed as the choice to continue a statin should be patient-specific with the pros and cons weighed by both the doctor and the patient. The FDA has requested that manufacturers update their package inserts to reflect the change. As of now, there is no deadline by which all manufacturers must update their package inserts.

Simvastatin blocks the production of cholesterol, which is important for the developing baby.

If you’re pregnant and need treatment for high cholesterol or triglycerides, talk with your doctor. They can discuss other treatment options during pregnancy.

If you become pregnant while taking this drug, call your doctor right away.

For people who are nursing: It isn’t known if simvastatin enters breast milk. However, because of the risk of severe side effects, this drug should not be used during nursing. Talk with your doctor about other cholesterol treatment options while nursing.

For people of Chinese descent: The risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis is higher when the drug is taken with niacin in larger doses. In addition, the FDA reports that, according to research, the incidence of myopathy is higher in people of Chinese descent. For more information about this higher occurrence, talk with your doctor.

All possible dosages and forms may not be included here. Your dose, form, and how often you take it may depend on:

• your age
• the condition being treated
• how severe your condition is
• other medical conditions you have
• how you react to the first dose

Drug forms and strengths

Generic: Simvastatin

• Form: oral tablet
• Strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg

Brand: Zocor

• Form: oral tablet
• Strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg

Dosage for high cholesterol

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

• Typical starting dosage: Simvastatin is often started at 10–20 mg per day. However, the dosage may range from 5 mg to 40 mg per day. You should take this drug once a day in the evening.
• Dosage increases: Your doctor will gradually adjust your dosage if needed.

Child dosage (ages 10–17 years)

• Typical starting dosage: 10 mg per day.
• Note: Doses above 40 mg per day have not been studied in this age group.

Child dosage (ages 4–9 years)

• Typical starting dosage: 5 mg per day.
• Note: Doses above 20 mg per day have not been studied in this age group.

Child dosage (ages 0–4 years)

This medication has not been studied in children below age 4 years.

Dosage for reducing the risk of heart disease and heart attack and stroke in people with heart disease

Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older)

• Typical starting dosage: Simvastatin is often started at 10–20 mg per day. However, the dosage may range from 5 mg to 40 mg per day. You should take this drug once a day in the evening.
• Dosage increases: Your doctor will gradually adjust your dosage if needed.

Child dosage (ages 10–17 years)

• Typical starting dosage: 10 mg per day.
• Note: Doses above 40 mg per day have not been studied in this age group.

Child dosage (ages 0–9 years)

This medication has not been studied in children below age 10 years.

Special dosage considerations

• For people with kidney disease: Having kidney disease may affect your dosage. People with advanced kidney disease usually require a lower dosage. Talk with your doctor about your treatment with simvastatin if you have kidney disease.
• For people with liver disease: If your liver isn’t working well, more of this drug may stay in your body longer. This puts you at increased risk of side effects. If you have active liver problems, you should not use this medication.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we can not guarantee that this list includes all possible dosages. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your doctor or pharmacist about dosages that are right for you.

Simvastatin is used for long-term treatment. It comes with serious risks if you don’t take it as prescribed.

If you don’t take it at all or stop taking it: If you have high cholesterol and don’t take your simvastatin, you risk having increased cholesterol levels, developing heart disease, and having a heart attack or a stroke.

If you don’t take it on schedule: Not taking simvastatin every day, skipping days, or taking doses at different times of the day may also increase your risk for high cholesterol levels, heart attack, or stroke.

If you miss a dose: If you miss a dose, take the next dose as scheduled. Do not double your dose.

How can I tell if the drug is working: Your cholesterol and triglyceride levels should be within healthy levels while taking it.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes simvastatin for you.

General

• You can take simvastatin with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce nausea.
• Take simvastatin in the evening to maximize its effects. Cholesterol production in the body is highest at nighttime.

Storage

• Store the tablets between 41°F and 86°F (5°C to 30°C).
• Keep the tablets in a tightly closed, light-resistant container.

Refills

A prescription for this medication is refillable. You should not need a new prescription for this medication to be refilled. Your doctor will write the number of refills authorized on your prescription.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

• Always carry your medication with you. When flying, never put it into a checked bag. Keep it in your carry-on bag.
• Don’t worry about airport X-ray machines. They won’t damage your medication.
• You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled container with you.
• Do not put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

Clinical monitoring

While you take simvastatin, your doctor will want to make sure that it isn’t affecting your liver and kidneys. Your doctor may perform a baseline liver function test (an initial liver function test that is repeated in a few months). They may also do additional liver and kidney function tests during treatment.

Are there any alternatives?

There are other drugs available to treat your condition. Some may be better suited for you than others. Talk with your doctor about other drug options that may work for you.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained here is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Simvastatin instructions for use: indications, contraindications, side effects – description Simvastatin tablets, film-coated, 10 mg: 20 or 30 pcs. (44449)

What is prescribed, analogs, dosage, side effects

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED. Stroke Angina Pills 237