Drug Name: Zocor
Brand Names: Zocor
Generic Name: simvastatin (SIM va stah tin)
Uses: Zocor is used for the treatment of high cholesterol. A proper diet is also prescribed in combination with the treatment. Individuals having heart disease, diabetes, vascular disease and a history of stroke can also be prescribed Zocor to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and reduce the symptoms of these conditions. The medicine works by reducing the total amount of cholesterol, the LDL or bad cholesterol and apolipoprotein B in the blood. It also increases the HDL or good cholesterol in the blood.
How to use: Zocor is usually taken with dinner or at bedtime. Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water. To have effective results, a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet should be followed.
Side Effects: Symptoms exhibited in the digestive, muscle skeletal and nervous system as well as skin, eye and allergic reactions may be experienced as side effects in taking Zocor. For the digestive system, constipation, diarrhea, upset stomach, gas, heartburn, stomach cramps, loss of appetite, nausea are some of these. Severe cases of liver damage and failure, cirrhosis and liver cancer have also been reported. Muscle cramps, aches and joint pain are some of the side effects though exhibited in the muscle skeletal system. Rash, itching, hair loss, dryness, blurred vision, altered sense of taste and eye muscle weakness may also be experienced. Mild symptoms may only need medical attention if they become bothersome. Sever side effects though should be notified to your doctor. Zocor medication may need to be stopped.
Precautions: A dosage adjustment of special monitoring may be needed if the individual has or had a history of kidney disease, chronic muscular disease and a blood disorder. You need to notify your doctor about these conditions before starting the treatment. You should also avoid alcoholic beverages while under treatment. Zocor has been said to cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy. It is important that you inform your doctor of your pregnancy.
Drug Interaction: If you are taking other medications, you should notify your doctor about this. Some drugs may interact with Zocor and affect the effectively of the medicine. These medications are itraconazole, ketoconazole, erythromycin, clarithromycin, telithromycin, HIV protease inhibitors and nefazodone.
Overdose: Nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach and indigestion are some of the symptoms of Zocor overdose. Emergency medical attention should be called immediately in the case of an overdose.
Notes: Grapefruit or grapefruit juice may interact with Zocor. It is important to consult your doctor about this.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not wait for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next one, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double your dosage.
Important Note: Tests may be needed to monitor your liver function. The first test is taken before the treatment and additional tests will then be made during the treatment. Your doctor will determine how much you need to be monitored. This will usually depend on the results of the first tests conducted.
Storage: Zocor should be stored at room temperature and kept away from moisture and heat.
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