Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] is a prescription medication indicated to be used in lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. This medication is an enzyme blocker and is also known as a “statin”. Generally, this medication is prescribed when non-drug methods to reduce cholesterol have failed. Reduction in the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood can decrease the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. The instructions on the medicine label should also be followed. This medication will work best when it is administered in the evening or at bedtime after dinner. Dosage depends on the patient’s medical condition and response to therapy. In case several doses have to be taken everyday, it should be taken with meals.

Regular blood tests should be conducted while treatment using this medication is going on for monitoring progress. The medication is to be considered a part of a complete program of regular exercise, weight control and a low-cholesterol diet to get the maximum benefit.

Some patients may need to use Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] for a long term period.

Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] may cause stomach upset especially during the first phase of treatment. If there is worsening of the condition, the doctor should be consulted.

This medication is known to cause serious though unlikely side effects in some patients. Muscle problem which can very rarely lead to a very serious condition called rhabdomyolysis. If symptoms of muscle problem such as muscle weakness, tenderness and pain, change in the amount of urine and fever do occur, it should be notified to the doctor immediately.

Very serious but highly unlikely side effects of the medication are yellowing of the eyes and skin, severe fatigue, persistent nausea, dark urine and stomach pain.
An allergic reaction to Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] is very rare but if it does occur, emergency medical help should be sought.

Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] may cause drug interactions when administered in combination with certain other medications such as the following:

• certain azole antifungals (e.g. Ketoconazole, itraconazole)
• HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., amprenavir, lopinavir, ritonavir)
• Nefazodone
• Delavirdine
• certain macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, troleandomycin, erythromycin)
• telithromycin
• "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin)
• colestipol
• danazol
• cholestyramine
• daptomycin
• inducers such as diltiazem, amiodarone, cyclosporine verapamil, digoxin, rifampin,
• carbamazepine
• St. John's wort

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests before and during treatment to check your response to simvastatin.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] is indicated for its use in the reduction of total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. It is also known to increase HDL cholesterol.

The tablet form of Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] should be stored at 5-30 C (41-86 F). The oral disintegrating tablets should be stored at 20-25 C (68-77 F).

Zocor [Simvastatin ORAL] is not recommended for use by lactating mothers and patients who have a liver disease.

Consumption of alcohol should be avoided as it could raise the level of cholesterol in the blood.

Foods which have high cholesterol content should not be eaten while treatment is going on.