Simvastatin

About simvastatin

Cholesterol is made naturally in the body and is absorbed from the food we eat. If levels of cholesterol are too high in the bloodstream, it is deposited on the walls of blood vessels. Eventually this leads to the narrowing of the blood vessels and can cause them to block completely. High levels of cholesterol can cause problems if left untreated.

Simvastatin is used to lower cholesterol and other lipids (fats) in the blood and may help prevent medical problems caused by cholesterol such as heart disease.

Before taking simvastatin

Before taking simvastatin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have any liver problems or have ever had a disease which affected your liver.
• If you have any kidney problems.
• If you suffer from myopathy (a condition that affects your muscles).
• If you have repeated or unexplained muscle aches or pain.
• If you have breathing problems.
• If you have a thyroid disorder.
• If you regularly drink large amounts of alcohol.
• If you have porphyria (a blood disorder).
• If you have an intolerance to some sugars.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  
  
• Simvastatin is not recommended for use in children.

How to take simvastatin

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take simvastatin exactly as you have been directed by your doctor.
• Simvastatin can be taken with or without food.
• Try to take simvastatin at the same time each evening to avoid missing any doses.
• If you do miss a dose, take your next dose at the correct time and then carry on as before. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not drink grapefruit juice while you are taking simvastatin.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. You will have tests, particularly when you first start treatment, to ensure the dose you are taking is right for you.
• Follow any advice your doctor has given you about a healthy diet, stopping smoking and taking exercise.
• Even if you do not feel unwell, do not stop taking simvastatin without checking with your doctor first.
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol while you are being treated with simvastatin. Alcohol can also increase your cholesterol levels.
• Women of childbearing age should not take simvastatin unless they are using an effective contraceptive, which should be continued for at least one month after stopping treatment.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with simvastatin.

Can simvastatin cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store simvastatin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Zocor®, Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised February 2008, accessed 4 March 2008.