Precautions
Simvastatin Side Effects
- In Summary. More frequently reported side effects include: eczema and increased creatine phosphokinase in blood specimen.
- For the Consumer. Along with its needed effects, simvastatin may cause some unwanted effects. ...
- For Healthcare Professionals. ...
- Frequently asked questions. ...
What are the bad side effects of simvastatin?
Signs of an overdose on this drug include: Trouble breathing due to allergic reaction Passing out Jaundice, indicating liver damage Dark urine and muscle pain, indicating rhabdomyolysis and kidney damage Seizures
What happens if I overdose on simvastatin?
Simvastatin Overdose If you take too much simvastatin, call your local Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical attention right away. Other Requirements Store simvastatin at room temperature between 41°F to 86°F (5°C to 30°C). Protect from moisture and light. Keep simvastatin and all medicines out of the reach of children. Contributors
Can You overdose on simvastatin?
There are not many differences between simvastatin and pravastatin as they both belong to the same class of cholesterol -lowering drug and act by the same mechanism of action. Their pharmacokinetics, potential for interactions with other medicines and normal dosage, however, differ slightly.
Are simvastatin and pravastatin similar drugs?
What is a substitute for simvastatin?
Ezetimibe (Zetia) is a popular medication that's often prescribed in cases where a statin isn't enough.
Is Zocor and simvastatin the same?
Simvastatin comes under the name Zocor, while Lipitor is the brand name for atorvastatin. Each is available as a generic product, as well. You can buy either drug in most pharmacies with a prescription from your doctor.
What is the best generic cholesterol medicine?
StatinsSimvastatin (generic Zocor)Atorvastatin (generic Lipitor)Rosuvastatin (generic Crestor)Fluvastatin (generic Lescol)Lovastatin (generic Mevacor)Pravastatin (generic Pravachol)
What is the average cost of simvastatin?
Average Retail Cost of Statins in the U.S.Medication nameGeneric or BrandAverage Retail PriceRosuvastatinGeneric$133.35CrestorBrand$309.49SimvastatinGeneric$26.87ZocorBrand$304.447 more rows•Aug 23, 2022
What is the safest statin to take?
According to a research review people who take simvastatin (Zocor) or pravastatin (Pravachol) may experience fewer side effects.
Why is simvastatin only taken at night?
Some statins have half-lives of less than six hours. These statins are best taken at night. Simvastatin is an example of a statin that works better if taken in the evening. Studies show that when simvastatin is taken at night, there's a greater reduction in LDL cholesterol than when it's taken in the morning.
What is the number 1 cholesterol medications?
Statins — Statins are one of the best-studied classes of medications and the most commonly used drugs for lowering LDL cholesterol. They are the most effective drugs for prevention of coronary heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and death....GRAPHICS.Generic nameBrand nameGemfibrozilLopid22 more rows•Jul 19, 2021
Is there a better statin than simvastatin?
Is atorvastatin or simvastatin better? Atorvastatin and simvastatin are both effective statin drugs for lowering blood cholesterol. However, atorvastatin is considered a more potent statin. Atorvastatin lasts longer in the body and can be taken in the morning or at night.
What is the best drink to lower cholesterol?
Some of the best drinks for cholesterol management include green tea, pomegranate juice, citrus juice, soy milk, plant-based smoothies, and red wine.
What is the cost of simvastatin without insurance?
(Generic Zocor) Simvastatin can also be purchased under the brand name Zocor. The average retail price of Simvastatin is about $93.65 for 30, 20MG Tablet. You can save on this price by using a SingleCare Simvastatin coupon on your next prescription refill. With our coupons, Simvastatin costs $1.60 for 30, 20mg Tablet.
Does Medicare pay for statins?
Yes. 100% of Medicare prescription drug plans cover this drug.
When did simvastatin go generic?
It was patented by Merck in 1980, and came into medical use in 1992. Simvastatin is available as a generic medication, and is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines....Simvastatin.Clinical dataMolar mass418.574 g·mol−13D model (JSmol)Interactive image36 more rows
Is simvastatin generic for Zocor?
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.
Is simvastatin called Zocor?
Simvastatin (Zocor) helps improve your cholesterol levels and is a common first-choice medication for people with high cholesterol or heart disease. It is also used for people who are at higher risk of heart disease, such as those with diabetes, even though they may have normal cholesterol levels.
What should you avoid on Zocor?
Avoid the use of grapefruit products. Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol, or simvastatin will not be as effective. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can raise triglyceride levels and may increase your risk of liver damage.
Who should not take Zocor?
Due to the increased risk of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, particularly during the first year of treatment, use of the 80-mg dose of ZOCOR should be restricted to patients who have been taking simvastatin 80 mg chronically (e.g., for 12 months or more) without evidence of muscle toxicity [see WARNINGS AND ...
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.
How does statin work?
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:
What happens if you don't take simvastatin?
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.
What class is simvastatin?
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.
Can you take simvastatin with digoxin?
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.
Can simvastatin cause myopathy?
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:
Can you take simvastatin with liver disease?
Warning for liver disease and alcohol misuse: People with active liver disease shouldn’t 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.
What is the half life of a drug?
The half-life of a drug is the time taken for the plasma concentration of a drug to reduce to half its original value.
Does Simvastatin lower cholesterol?
Simvastatin is effective at lowering cholesterol; however, it may cause muscle pain particularly at higher dosages. Prescribed for High Cholesterol, Cardiovascular Risk Reduction, High Cholesterol -... Atorvastatin is effective at lowering cholesterol; however, its use may be limited by side effects such as muscle pain.
Does grapefruit juice increase simvastatin?
Grapefruit juice can significantly increase the blood levels of simvastatin. This can increase the...
Does atorvastatin cause liver problems?
Atorvastatin may cause liver problems and using it with substantial quantities of alcohol may...
What to tell your doctor before taking a med?
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).
What tests should be done to check for side effects?
Laboratory and/or medical tests (such as blood cholesterol / triglyceride levels) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
How to take simvastatin?
How to use Simvastatin. 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.
How much can you save on prescriptions?
Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.
Can simvastatin cause allergies?
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.
Can Chinese take niacin?
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.
Can you flush expired medication down the toilet?
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.
How does PCSK9 work?
Changes in this gene can lower the amount of LDL receptors. PCSK9 drugs work by suppressing the PCSK9 enzyme expressed by the gene.
What is the best medication for high cholesterol?
Cholesterol absorption inhibitors. If statins are not an option or you experience side effects, your doctor can prescribe a different drug to treat high cholesterol. A common alternative is a cholesterol absorption inhibitor . These drugs prevent your small intestine from properly absorbing the cholesterol you consume.
What is the best medicine for high triglycerides?
A common prescription for high triglycerides is niacin or vitamin B-3. Niacin can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
What is PCSK9 inhibitor?
PCSK9 inhibitors, like statins, are effective in lowering cholesterol. These medications offer an alternative for those who can’t take statins. People have a gene called proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). It determines the number of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors in the body.
What is the best alternative to statins?
Another alternative to statins is bile acid–binding resins, or sequestrants. These drugs work by binding to the bile in your intestines and thereby blocking cholesterol absorption into your bloodstream.
Why is too much cholesterol bad for you?
Having too much cholesterol circulating in your arteries is dangerous because it can build up plaque. A buildup of plaque can prevent blood from flowing properly and can increase the risk of a heart attack.
What is the name of the class of medications that are prescribed for high triglycerides?
When more aggressive treatment is necessary to treat high triglycerides, a class of medications called fibrates is often prescribed.
What is the baseline LDL for statins?
As shown in Table 2, virtually all patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), a baseline LDL above 190 mg/ dL, or a history of ASCVD should be treated with a statin. Using the ACC/AHA guideline risk-factor calculator, any white male over the age of 63 (over 66 years for African American men) or any white female over the age of 71 years (over 70 years for African American women) with optimal risk-factor levels should be taking a statin.23 If a person has hypertension, high LDL, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or is a current smoker, statins are recommended at younger ages. Along with the recommendation to initiate a statin in these patients are further recommendations for the intensity of statin therapy based on observed LDL reduction (low, moderate, or high). Table 3 lists the different statins and their respective intensity as defined by the new guidelines.20 Since adoption of the new guidelines may result in an increase in the number of prescriptions for statins, adverse effects and cost are likely to be of concern to many patients.
What are statins used for?
High-dose, high-intensity statin treatment was shown to have improved outcomes in patients who had experienced acute coronary syndromes or who had an established history of cardiovascular disease in the following trials: Treating to New Targets (TNT); High-dose Atorvastatin vs Usual-dose Simvastatin for Secondary Prevention After Myocardial Infarction (IDEAL); and Pravastatin or Atorvastatin Evaluation and Infection Therapy—Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (PROVE-IT TIMI 22) .6-8 Primary prevention trials with moderate-intensity statins also highlighted the benefit of statin use in those patients at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Several of these trials, including the Anglo-Scandinavian Cardiac Outcomes Trial—Lipid Lowering Arm (ASCOT-LLA); Collaborative Atorvastatin Diabetes Study (CARDS); Atorvastatin Study for Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease Endpoints (ASPEN); and Heart Protection Study (HPS) included secondary analysis of diabetic cohorts.3-5 ,18 While most of the original trials were not powered to identify statistical significance in these diabetic cohorts, there is a clear statistical trend showing that primary prevention of cardiovascular disease with statins in patients with diabetes improves outcomes as well.
How are statins different from other LDL medications?
Statins are set apart from other LDL-lowering medications by the existence of multiple clinical trials showing a reduction in cardiovascular events that no other class of drugs targeting cholesterol has been able to replicate. It is proposed that statins have pleiotropic effects; that is, their actions in the body result in more than simply ...
Is pravastatin more expensive than lovastatin?
Pravastatin and simvastatin are included on some regional pharmacy-chain formularies, but pravastatin tends to be more expensive than either lovastatin or simvastatin, as shown in Table 4 .
What is the mechanism of action of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors?
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, more commonly known as statins, are some of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States.1 Their mechanism of action involves reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol.
Does pravastatin increase risk of DM?
The risk of incident DM with statin therapy began to surface in the mid-2000s, particularly when the JUPITER trial investigators noted a statistically significant increase of newly diagnosed DM in the rosuvastatin arm.26 Several meta-analyses were conducted to identify the significance of the risk of DM in trials investigating all statins.27-30 A meta-analysis published in 2013 concluded a low risk of new-onset DM with pravastatin 40 mg, a moderate risk with atorvastatin 80 mg, and the highest risk with rosuvastatin 20 mg, though none of the observed risks were statistically significant.28 A second meta-analysis published in 2013 compared the relative risk of incident DM between pravastatin and all other statins.29 These authors found atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, and simvastatin to have a statistically significant relative risk increase in new-onset DM compared to pravastatin. While the results of the meta-analyses seemed to show that statin users have a significantly increased risk of DM, the benefits of preventing cardiovascular events and death outweigh this risk.27-30
Is lovastatin generic?
Of the six statins demonstrating clinical evidence for prevention of cardiovascular events and/or death, five are available generically. As of press time, lovastatin is the only option available on the lowest-cost generic formularies (i.e., the “4-dollar list”) from chains such as Walmart and Target.
How long will Zocor stay in my system?
Zocor doesn’t stay in your system very long. The drug gets broken down and removed from your body within about 1 day.
Do I need to follow a certain diet while taking Zocor?
No, there isn’t any specific diet you need to follow while taking Zocor. However, it’s important to note that Zocor doesn’t take the place of a healthy diet.
Is Zocor safe for older adults?
In general, yes, Zocor is safe for older adults. Clinical studies of Zocor included nearly 6,000 adults who were ages 65 years or older. In these studies, the researchers didn’t notice any differences in safety or effectiveness when Zocor was used in older adults compared with people under age 65 years.
Do I need regular cholesterol screenings?
Yes, adults ages 20 years and older should get tested regularly for high cholesterol. High cholesterol rarely causes any symptoms. Therefore, many people often don’t realize they have high cholesterol until a serious complication occurs, such as a heart attack or stroke.
Can Zocor be crushed, split, or chewed?
The manufacturer of Zocor hasn’ t stated whether the tablets can be crushed, split, or chewed. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have trouble swallowing Zocor tablets.
What is the difference between Zocor and Lipitor?
Zocor contains the active drug simvastatin. Lipitor contains the active drug atorvastatin. Both simvastatin and atorvastatin belong to a class of medications known as statins. (A medication class is a group of drugs that work together in a similar way.)
What is the cause of low cholesterol?
lower high cholesterol (along with a healthy diet) caused by a genetic condition called heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) in children ages 10 to 17 years. Zocor is approved to treat these conditions in certain situations.
What are the side effects of Vytorin (ezetimibe / simvastatin)?
With any medication, there are risks and benefits. Even if the medication is working, you may experience some unwanted side effects.
How much does Vytorin (ezetimibe / simvastatin) cost?
Vytorin (ezetimibe / simvastatin) is available as a generic medication and may be significantly cheaper compared to the brand version. Unless there is a specific reason you need the brand, the generic medication will be a better value. For even more savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
What are the two drugs in Vytorin?
What two drugs are in Vytorin (ezetimibe / simvastatin) ? Vytorin (ezetimibe / simvastatin) is a combination of ezetimibe (Zetia) and simvastatin (Zocor) that is used for treating high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Vytorin (ezetimibe / simvastatin) reduces total cholesterol and "bad" cholesterol (LDL), and it increases "good" cholesterol (HDL).
What is vytorin vs simvastatin?
Vytorin (ezetimibe / simvastatin) is a combination cholesterol-lowering medication. Simvastatin, a statin, helps to lower "bad" cholesterol (called LDL) by blocking cholesterol production in the liver. Statins can also raise "good" cholesterol (called HDL). Ezetimibe, a cholesterol absorption inhibitor, reduces the amount ...
How much is ezetimibe / simvastatin?
Dosing may be increased up to 10 mg/40 mg (ezetimibe/simvastatin), depending on how you to respond to the medication, as well as any risk factors and side effects.
How do you know if you have high blood sugar?
signs and symptoms of high blood sugar such as being more thirsty or hungry or having to urinate more than normal. You may also feel very tired or have blurry vision. trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine. unusually weak. yellowing of the skin or eyes.
What are the side effects of a syringe?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: 1 allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue 2 confusion 3 dark yellow or brown urine 4 depression 5 fever 6 loss of memory 7 muscle pain, tenderness, cramps, or weakness 8 redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth 9 signs and symptoms of high blood sugar such as being more thirsty or hungry or having to urinate more than normal. You may also feel very tired or have blurry vision. 10 trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine 11 unusually weak 12 yellowing of the skin or eyes
Overview
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.
May Treat: Hypercholesterolemia · Coronary artery disease · Hyperlipidemia · Hypertriglyceridemia · Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and more
Drug Class: Antihyperlipidemic - HMG CoA Reductase Inhibitors (statins)
Availability: Prescription Required
Pregnancy: Consult your doctor. This medication may be harmful to an unborn child.
Lactation: This drug should not be given to breastfeeding mothers
- Avoid taking grapefruit juice/grapefruit with med
- Report unexplained muscle pain/weakness/fever
- Call MD if new abdominal pain/yellowing eyes/skin
- Avoid taking grapefruit juice/grapefruit with med
- Report unexplained muscle pain/weakness/fever
- Call MD if new abdominal pain/yellowing eyes/skin
- Not recommended when breast feeding
- Tell doctor if you think you are pregnant
- Review all drugs you are taking with your doctor
- For suspension, oral products : Shake well & measure with dosing spoon/cup/syringe. Take daily in the evening on an empty stomach.
- For tablet products : Take once daily in the evening. Lab tests may be ordered to monitor therapy.
Why it’s used
How it works
More common side effects
Serious side effects
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Simvastatin oral tablet is available as a brand-name drug and a generic drug. Brand name: Zocor. - Simvastatin comes in two forms: an oral tablet and an oral suspension.
Simvastatin oral tablet is used to help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It can also reduce the risk of heart disease.
Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors
- 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
Other cholesterol-lowering drugs
- Simvastatin belongs to the drug class known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, also called stati…
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: - Statins are usually used in combination with lifestyle changes, such as changes to diet and exer…
Simvastatin oral tablet doesn’t cause drowsiness, but it can cause other side effects.
Calcium channel blockers and other drugs that increase risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis
- The more common side effects that can occur with simvastatin include:
Heart drug
- Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life thr…
severe muscle pain or weakness - muscle pain or weakness that does not go away when this drug is stopped
jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
Gout drug
- These drugs block your body from breaking down simvastatin. This can lead to very high levels …
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:
Warfarin (blood thinne
- When used with simvastatin, some cholesterol drugs can increase side effects such as myopath…
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.
Alcohol warning
- Using simvastatin with these drugs can increase the risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Your d…
Do not take more than 10 mg of simvastatin with diltiazem or verapamil, or more than 20 mg of simvastatin with amlodipine.
Food interaction warning
- 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.
Warnings for people with certain health conditions
- Colchicine is a drug used to treat gout. Using simvastatin with colchicine can increase the risk of both myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
Warnings for other groups
- When taken with warfarin, simvastatin can increase the blood-thinning effects of warfarin. This c…
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 …
Drug forms and strengths
- 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.
Dosage for high cholesterol
- Avoid grapefruit juice while taking simvastatin. Grapefruit juice can increase simvastatin levels in your body and increase the risk of side effects.
Dosage for reducing the risk of heart disease and heart attack and stroke in people with heart disease
- For people with low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) or diabetes: Simvastatin and other statin dr…
use of drugs that interact with simvastatin - Tell your doctor right away if you experience:
unexplained muscle weakness or tenderness
Special dosage considerations
- For pregnant people: In July 2021, the FDA requested that statins no longer be labeled as “contr…
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. …
If you become pregnant while taking this drug, call your doctor right away.
General
- Strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg
Strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg
Storage
- 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)
Refills
- 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)
Travel
- For people with kidney disease: Having kidney disease may affect your dosage. People with adv…
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, …
Simvastatin is used for long-term treatment. It comes with serious risks if you don’t take it as prescribed.
Clinical monitoring
- 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.
Are there any alternatives?
- Store the tablets between 41°F and 86°F (5°C to 30°C).
Keep the tablets in a tightly closed, light-resistant container.