General Information on Zocor

Zocor, also known as simvastatin, is a hypolipidemic drug that belongs to the category of drugs known as statins. A product obtained through the fermentation of a fungus called Aspergillus terreus acts as a source of this drug. Zocor works by reducing LDL, triglycerides and other forms of bad cholesterol and promoting HDL in the blood. The medication inhibits an enzyme that prevents the liver from producing excess cholesterol. This ultimately helps in the prevention of diseases like heart attack and strokes.

Zocor Side Effects

Muscle pain and tenderness, body ache, weakness, tiredness, joint pains, and headache are among the common side effects that you may experience while using Zocor. Breathing problems, cough, chills, fever, sore throat, and congestion in the ear and nose may also be experienced. Less common or rare side effects of Zocor include less accurate vision, heartburn, acidic stomach, diarrhea, and indigestion. Stomach pain, loss of strength, nausea, and itching skin too are reported by the few patients who are administered Zocor. The occurrence of any of these conditions may or may not be associated with the use of this medication, but it is important to report them to the doctor immediately.

Zocor Precautions

It is important that your liver is examined before the start of this medication. You must also report any history related to liver or kidney diseases to your doctor. Discuss all prescription and non-prescription drugs that you have been taking with your doctor before you buy Zocor. A proper and recommended diet is an essential factor for Zocor to work in the desired manner. A diet which is low in fat and sugar content is generally recommended for those taking Zocor.

Certain food items like grapefruit are completely prohibited as they can increase the potency of this medication in the body. Learn about these food items from your doctor. Exercising and quitting smoking and alcohol consumption are other essential practices that must be followed along with taking the medication. The use of Zocor during pregnancy or while you are breastfeeding must also be essentially discussed with the doctor.

Zocor Dosage

To treat hypercholesterolemia in adults, the dosage should range between Zocor 20 mg and Zocor 40 mg once a day. Those in the age group of 10-17 years must be initially given Zocor 10 mg once a day. The dosage may be increased by the doctor, though it should not exceed Zocor 40 mg in any case. Zocor dosage is significantly affected by the dose of other medications prescribed by the doctor to control cholesterol. An overdose of the medication may cause muscle injury, kidney failure, or myopathy.

Zocor Interactions

Zocor has the ability to interact with many other medications, and you must obtain the list from your doctor. Azole anti-fungal medications, macrolide antibiotics, and HIV protease inhibitors and medications like Atazanavir, Itraconazole, Ciprofloxacin, Danazol, Ketoconazole, Levothyroxine, and many others may possibly interact with Zocor. The medication may also interact with tobacco and alcohol, both of which must be strictly prohibited while using it.