Zocor

Common Name: simvastatin

How does Zocor work?

Simvastatin belongs to the group of medications known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (also known as "statins"). It is used in addition to diet and exercise to lower cholesterol levels. It works by blocking an enzyme that helps create cholesterol in the body. Therefore less cholesterol is made and levels of cholesterol in the blood decrease. Reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood has been shown to reduce the risks associated with heart disease, such as heart attack. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Zocor?

Before starting simvastatin, you should be placed on a cholesterol-lowering diet. If appropriate, a program of weight control and physical exercise should be implemented. The recommended dose range of simvastatin for most people is 10 mg to 40 mg once daily. The usual starting dose is 10 mg to 20 mg once daily in the evening. Some people with mild to moderately elevated cholesterol may be started on 5 mg daily. The maximum recommended daily dose is 80 mg, which may be required for some people who are unable to achieve a desired cholesterol level using lower doses. For people taking the medications verapamil or amiodarone as well as simvastatin, the maximum recommended daily dose is 20 mg. For people taking cyclosporine, gemfibrozil, other fibrates (e.g., fenofibrate), or niacin (>1 g/day), the maximum recommended daily dose is 10 mg. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

What form(s) does Zocor come in?

Zocor® is available in strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg. 5 mg: Each buff-coloured, shield-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "726" on one side and "Z" on the other, contains simvastatin 5 mg. 10 mg: Each peach-coloured, shield-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "735" on one side and "Z" on the other, contains simvastatin 10 mg. 20 mg: Each tan-coloured, shield-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "740" on one side and "Z" on the other, contains simvastatin 20 mg. 40 mg: Each brick-red-coloured, shield-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "749" on one side and "Z" on the other, contains simvastatin 40 mg. 80 mg: Each brick-red-coloured, capsule-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "543" on one side and "80" on the other, contains: simvastatin 80 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: For the 5 mg tablet: ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole, citric acid, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, methylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, talc, titanium dioxide, and yellow ferric oxide. For the 10 mg and 20 mg tablets: ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole, citric acid, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, methylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, red ferric oxide, talc, titanium dioxide, and yellow ferric oxide. For the 40 mg and 80 mg tablets: ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxyanisole, citric acid, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, methylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, red ferric oxide, talc, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Zocor?

Simvastatin should not be taken by anyone who: is allergic to any ingredient of this medication has active liver disease or has unexplained increases in certain liver function tests is pregnant is breast-feeding

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Zocor?

Kidney function: People with severely reduced kidney function should use simvastatin with caution. Liver: Rarely, laboratory signs of harmful effects to the liver occur for people taking simvastatin. When the medication is stopped, the laboratory tests usually slowly return to normal. People taking simvastatin should have their liver function monitored by their doctor. Simvastatin should be used with caution by people who drink large quantities of alcohol or who have a past history of liver disease. Muscle effects: Muscle pain, cramps, and weakness have rarely been associated with treatment with simvastatin. You should report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor, particularly if it is accompanied by malaise or fever. Serious allergic reaction: If you notice the following symptoms, stop taking this medication and get emergency medical help immediately: changes in the skin colour of the face fast or irregular breathing large swellings that look like hives on the face, eyelids, mouth, lips, or tongue puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or the area around the eyes shortness of breath difficulty breathing tightness in the chest or wheezing skin rash, hives, or itching Pregnancy: Simvastatin should not be taken during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking simvastatin immediately. Breast-feeding: It is not known if simvastatin passes into breast milk. Because many medications pass into breast milk and because of the potential for serious side effects, women taking simvastatin should not nurse. Children: There is limited experience with the use of this medication by children. Its safety and effectiveness for this age group have not been established.