Generic Zocor - simvastatin - helps save lives among people who suffer from high cholesterol and heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people in the United States. One type of heart disease is called coronary heart disease (CHD), which is caused by atherosclerosis. CHD results in narrowing of coronary arteries (through which oxygen-rich blood and nutrients are supplied to the heart). In time, the inadequate supply of oxygen-rich blood and nutrients damages the heart muscle and can lead to chest pain and heart attack—and possibly to death, by reducing the risk of heart attack.


 

FAQ

About Zocor
Zocor (brand name made by Merck) or Simvastatin (generic Zocor) is a prescription drug used for those who have high cholesterol. When taken together with a low-fat diet, this medicine can lower LDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as the “bad” cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol, while increasing the HDL, or “good” cholesterol.

For patients at high risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) because of existing heart disease, diabetes, vascular disease, or history of stroke, Zocor is indicated along with diet to reduce the risk of death by reducing coronary death; Zocor reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke; and reduce the need for revascularization procedures.

How Zocor works
Simvastatin works by blocking an enzyme in the liver that is used by your body to make cholesterol. The result is lower levels of circulating cholesterol and reduced risk of hardening of the arteries and plaque accumulation in blood vessel walls.

Zocor dosage
• Take each dose of Zocor with a full glass of water.
• For the greatest effect, Zocor is usually taken at bedtime or with an evening meal. Follow your doctor's instructions.
• Your doctor may want to monitor your liver function with blood tests before starting treatment with Zocor and every six months after both the start of your treatment and any increase in dose. Depending on the results of these tests, your doctor can determine how much monitoring you will require.
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Zocor. The interaction could lead to potentially dangerous effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit and grapefruit juice with your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor.

Zocor side effects
Simvastatin is generally well-tolerated and side effects are rare. Minor side effects include constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, gas, heartburn, and headache. Major side effects include abdominal pain or cramps, blurred vision, dizziness, easy bruising or bleeding, itching, muscle pain or cramps, rash, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Zocor Warnings / Precautions
Zocor is a prescription tablet and isn’t right for everyone, including women who are nursing or pregnant or who may become pregnant, and anyone with liver problems. Unexplained muscle pain or weakness could be a sign of a rare but serious side effect and should be reported to your doctor right away. Zocor may interact with other medicines or certain foods, increasing your risk of getting this serious side effect. So tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking.