Generic name: simvastatin [ SIM-va-sta-tin ]
Brand name: Zocor
Drug class:Statins
What is simvastatin?
Simvastatin belongs to a group of drugs called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, or "statins."
Simvastatin is used to lower blood levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL), to increase levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL), and to lower triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood).
Simvastatin is also used to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications in people with diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors.
Simvastatin is used in adults and children who are at least 10 years old.
Warnings
In rare cases, simvastatin can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, potentially leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.
Never take simvastatin in larger amounts, or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Taking too much of this medication may cause serious or life-threatening side effects.
Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you have ever had liver or kidney disease, diabetes, or a thyroid disorder, if you are of Chinese descent, or if you drink more than 2 alcoholic beverages daily.
Simvastatin can harm an unborn baby or cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with simvastatin and lead to potentially dangerous effects. Do not consume grapefruit products while taking this medication.
Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with simvastatin. Your doc...
