Zocor (Simvastatin)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - March 17, 2021
Zocor (Simvastatin) Medication Information
Uses
Zocor is a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, also referred to commonly as a statin, and it is used to treat hyperlipidemia.
Dosage
The tablets are available in several different strengths:
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
- 80 mg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Zocor include:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Headache
- Respiratory tract infection
Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Zocor.
Precautions
There is a risk of myopathy when taking Zocor, patients should monitor for unexplained muscle pain and discuss with their doctor if they have any.
There is a possibility of seeing an increase in liver enzymes while taking Zocor, so patients should be monitored for liver function.
Interactions
A common drug interaction with Zocor includes:
- Itraconazole
- Clarithromycin
- Nefazodone
- Gemfibrozil
- Cyclosporine
- Amiodarone
- Verapamil
- Grapefruit juice
Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Zocor.
Storage
Store at room temperature (41-86 ºF).
Pharmacist Tips
- If you are taking Zocor there is a risk of developing myopathy and you should monitor for muscle pain.
- You should stick to a diet and exercise plan in addition to taking Zocor.
- Your doctor will monitor your liver function while you are taking Zocor.
Simvastatin FAQs
How long does it take for Zocor to lower cholesterol?
It can take a few weeks to see the benefit of Zocor.
Can I just quit taking Zocor?
Zocor is an important medication for reducing your risk of having a heart attack or stroke, so you should not quit taking it without your doctors advice.
What food should I avoid with Zocor?
You should avoid grapefruit while taking Zocor.
What are the side effects of Zocor?
The most common side effects with Zocor are stomach pain, constipation, nausea, muscle pain, and headache.
Does Zocor cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a common side effect seen with Zocor.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Zocor {package insert}. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co., Inc.; 2010.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/019766s078lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.