Zocor (Simvastatin)

Description:

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Chemical Name: Simvastatin (SIM-va-stat-in)

ZOCOR is a prescription drug that is used with diet changes (limiting the intake of cholesterol and fat) to reduce the level of cholesterol and certain fatty substances in your blood. It is primarily used for patients with coronary heart disease and high cholesterol to reduce the risk of coronary death, heart attack, undergoing cardiac procedures, and/or to reduce the risk of stroke or transient ischemic attack. The buildup of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries decreases blood flow and in turn negatively affects the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body.

Directions:

Doctors will provide patients on how many tablets to take daily. Take ZOCOR only as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will determine the appropriate tablet strength for you, depending on your condition, your current treatment and personal risks.

Generally, ZOCOR is taken in the evening with food and drink. The usual starting dose is 10, 20 or 40 mg daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose after at least 4 weeks to a maximum of 80 mg a day. Do not take more than 80 mg a day. Your doctor may prescribe lower doses, particularly if you are taking certain medicinal products or have kidney conditions. Keep taking ZOCOR unless your doctor advises you not to.

Grapefruit juice contains one or more components that alter how the body uses some medicinal products. Do not consume grapefruit juice while on this medication.

Do not take larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Carefully follow the directions on your prescription label. Patients are advised not to give their medication to anyone else, even if they have the same condition.

Cautions:

Not all medications work effectively for all patients and can cause serious health issues. You should not take ZOCOR if you experience the following:

• are allergic or hypersensitive to simvastatin or any other ingredients of ZOCOR
• experiencing liver problems and/or severe lung disease
• pregnant or breast-feeding
• if you are taking medications to treat fungal infections, HIV protease inhibitors or medicine for depression
• unexplained muscle pain and/or tenderness

ZOCOR may not be right for you. Before patients start ingesting ZOCOR, they should also complete a blood test to check their liver functioning. Patients should share all lifestyle and medical information with their doctor to ensure their safety. Inform your doctor of:

• all your medical history & conditions, including allergies
• alcohol consumption levels
• kidney problems
• thyroid problems
• history of liver disease
• plans to have surgery in the near future
• past muscle problems during treatment with cholesterol-lowering medications
• you or a close family member having a hereditary muscle disorder
• use of any other medications, including prescriptions, non-prescriptions and herbal medications

Side Effects:

Patients should inform their doctor if they do not feel well while taking ZOCOR. Like other medications, ZOCOR can have side effects, although they do not affect every patient.

Notify your doctor if you experience:

• hair loss
• muscle cramps
• insomnia
• poor memory
• feelings of depression
• erectile dysfunction
• breathing problems including persistent cough and/or shortness of breath or fever

Some side effects that may occur while taking this medication include:

• gas
• stomach pain or cramps
• diarrhea
• constipation
• heartburn
• headache
• blurred vision
• dizziness
• rash or itching
• upset stomach or nausea

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
• brown/black urine
• tingling in hands or feet
• jaundice
• hives
• painful swollen joints
• bruising more easily than usual
• swelling of the tongue or face
• pregnancy

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. Consult your doctor if you notice any additional effects.

Product Code: 1921