Simvastatin Medication Profile: Uses, Side Effects, and Dosing
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Zocor ({Simvastatin})
2.
Pharmacologic Category
HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors (Statins) Other medications in the same pharmacologic category: Atorvastatin, Rosuvastatin, Pravastatin, Lovastatin, Fluvastatin, and Pitavastatin.
3. Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration
{Primary hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)}: 5-40 mg orally once daily {Mixed dyslipidemia}: 5-40 mg orally once daily {Familial hypercholesterolemia}: 5-40 mg orally once daily {Prevention of cardiovascular disease}: 5-40 mg orally once daily {Atherosclerosis}: 5-40 mg orally once daily {Coronary artery disease}: 5-40 mg orally once daily {Ischemic stroke prevention}: 5-40 mg orally once daily {Peripheral artery disease}: 5-40 mg orally once daily
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Oral tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg
Administration Instructions
Take {simvastatin} at the same time each day, preferably in the evening. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or split. Can be taken with or without food.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects
{Myalgia (muscle pain)} (common): Aching or discomfort in the muscles. {Headache} (common): A painful sensation in the head. {Diarrhea} (common): Frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements. {Nausea} (less common): Feeling of sickness or urge to vomit. {Liver enzyme elevations} (less common): Increase in liver enzyme levels, indicating potential liver damage. {Rhabdomyolysis} (rare): Breakdown of muscle tissue, which can lead to kidney damage.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to {simvastatin} or any component of the formulation Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations in liver enzymes Pregnancy Breastfeeding
Drug-to-Drug Interactions
{Cyclosporine} (Neoral, Sandimmune): Increased risk of muscle and liver toxicity. {Gemfibrozil} (Lopid): Increased risk of muscle toxicity. {Clarithromycin} (Biaxin): Increased risk of muscle and liver toxicity. {Protease inhibitors} (e.g., ritonavir [Norvir], lopinavir/ritonavir [Kaletra]): Increased risk of muscle and liver toxicity.
Pregnancy
{Simvastatin} is classified as Pregnancy Category X. It is contraindicated during pregnancy, as it may cause fetal harm.
BreastfeedingEstimated Price for a 30-Day Supply
The estimated price of a 30-day supply of {simvastatin} varies depending on the dose. Using a GoodRx coupon, the price ranges from $4 to $20. Prices may vary depending on location and specific pharmacy.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.