General Overview
Simvastatin blocks the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver. It is highly effective but carries a risk of muscle pain and damage (myopathy], especially at higher doses.
Medicine Information
Simvastatin
Simvastatin
Prescription required
Cholesterol / Statin
Medicine Safety Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any medicine without consulting a qualified doctor or pharmacist. In case of overdose, severe allergic reaction, breathing difficulty, swelling of the face/lips, unconsciousness, or severe side effects, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Composition
Simvastatin IP
Strength
10 mg / 20 mg / 40 mg
Medicine Type
Tablet
Brand Names
Simvotin
Zocor
Simcard
Reported Uses
Used to treat hypercholesterolemia and prevent coronary heart disease events.
General Characteristics
Reduces cardiovascular mortality, lowers LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and increases HDL ("good") cholesterol.
General Mechanism of Action
Competitively inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts HMG-CoA to mevalonate in cholesterol synthesis.
Storage Guidelines
Store between 5°C and 30°C in a dry place. Keep bottle tightly closed.
General Educational Notes
This medicine works best when combined with a low-cholesterol diet and regular physical exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why must Simvastatin be taken at night?
Simvastatin has a short duration of action (half-life of 2 hours). Since the body synthesizes the majority of its cholesterol during the early hours of the morning, taking it at bedtime ensures maximum drug concentration when cholesterol synthesis is highest.
What is Rhabdomyolysis?
It is a rare but severe side effect where muscle tissue breaks down rapidly, releasing proteins (myoglobin) into the blood that can clog and damage the kidneys, leading to kidney failure.