What is Simvastatin?
Simvastatin is a prescription drug available in the form of tablets and suspension under the brand name Zocor. It belongs to the class of drugs known as statins and is used to lower high blood cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
Simvastatin Uses
Simvastatin is used in combination with a healthy diet, weight loss, and exercise to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke and reduce the need for heart surgery in people at risk of heart disease. It lowers levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and increases levels of HDL cholesterol. It is also used to treat cholesterol and other fatty substances in the blood in children and teenagers aged 10 to 17 with familial heterozygous hypercholesterolemia.
Simvastatin Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Headache
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Itchy or red skin
Serious side effects include:
- Muscle pain
- Dark red urine
- Decreased urination
- Lack of energy, tiredness, or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Dark-colored urine
Common side effects usually don’t require medical attention and will disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. Seek medical attention for serious side effects.
Precautions
Before taking Simvastatin, inform your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications. Discuss your medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or stomach ulcers. Inform your doctor about any other prescription or non-prescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
How to Use Simvastatin
Simvastatin is available as a tablet and a suspension for oral administration. The tablets are typically taken once a day in the evening. The suspension is usually taken once a day in the evening on an empty stomach. Shake the suspension well for at least 20 seconds before each use. Do not measure your dosage with a household teaspoon; use a proper measuring device.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Generic: Simvastatin
- Oral tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg
Brand: Zocor
- Oral tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg
Dosage for high cholesterol:
- Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older): 10 to 20 mg per day.
- Child dosage (ages 10–17 years): 10 mg per day.
Dosage for reducing the risk of heart disease:
- Adult dosage (ages 18 years and older): 10 to 20 mg per day.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose, take it the next day at the normal time. Do not take more than two tablets at the same time. Never exceed the recommended dose. Setting an alarm can help you remember your doses.
Overdose
Taking an extra dose of simvastatin is unlikely to harm you. If you are concerned or take more than one dose, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
For people with low thyroid function or diabetes:
- Simvastatin can cause rhabdomyolysis, especially if you have hypothyroidism or diabetes, are a senior, have kidney disease, or use drugs that interact with simvastatin.
For people with liver disease:
- Do not use simvastatin if you have an active liver disease like cirrhosis.
Pregnancy:
- Simvastatin inhibits cholesterol production, which is essential for fetal development. Consult your doctor for alternative therapies if you are pregnant.
Breastfeeding:
- It is unknown if simvastatin passes into breast milk. Do not use this drug while breastfeeding; consult your doctor for alternatives.
Storage
Store Simvastatin at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF or 20ºC to 25ºC), away from heat, air, and light. Keep it out of reach of children.
Simvastatin vs. Atorvastatin
| Simvastatin | Atorvastatin |
| Available as tablet and suspension under the brand name Zocor. | HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor used to lower LDL cholesterol. |
| Slows down cholesterol production in the body. | Reduces the amount of cholesterol made by the liver. |
| Common side effects: Constipation, stomach pain, nausea, headache, memory loss. | Common side effects: Diarrhea, heartburn, gas, joint pain, weakness. |
