Zocor (SIMVASTATIN) is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or "statin".

It used to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels in your blood or to raise good cholesterol (HDL) levels in adults.

Zocor is used combining with a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet.

Simvastatin might also be used in particular adolescent patients, age 10 to 17 years, who have a genetically caused cholesterol problem. Zocor works by inhibiting an enzyme that is essential for your body to make cholesterol. When this enzyme is inhibited, your body makes smaller amount cholesterol.

Keeping your cholesterol level under control may reduce your risk of heart problems and stroke. Zocor is not a cure for high cholesterol, but may help to control it. Zocor may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Avoid using Zocor if you are also taking fibrates such as gemfibrozil or fenofibrate; hiv protease inhibitors such as ritonavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir; itraconazole; ketoconazole; macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or troleandomycin; nefazodone; or high-dose niacin (1 gram or more per day).

extra observations of your dosage or circumstance may be required if you are taking amiodarone, "blood thinners" such as warfarin, bosentan, cyclosporine, dalfopristin or quinupristin, digoxin, diltiazem, fluconazole, imatinib, rifamycins such as rifampin, st. John's wort, verapamil, or voriconazole.

Do not begin or end any medicinal drug without doctor or pharmacist support. Notify your doctor of any other medical conditions including kidney problems, muscle problems, alcohol use, allergies (especially to other "statins"), pregnancy, or nursing.

Specific medical conditions, including low blood pressure; severe infection; uncontrolled seizures; or serious metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte problems may add to your threat for side effects that can result in kidney problems. Get in touch with your doctor if you develop one of these conditions.

Consumption of Zocor is not suggested if you have a history of liver disease or ongoing, abnormal liver function test results. Make contact with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about consuming Zocor.

Zocor may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. If you are taking 1 dose a day, take your dosage in the evening or at bedtime as suggested by your doctor. Your dosage is based on your medical state, response to treatment, and the other medicinal drugs that you are taking. Do not exceed the suggested dose of Zocor.

Do not drink large quantity of grapefruit juice (greater than 1 quart daily) or eat large amounts of grapefruit while taking Zocor.

Store Zocor at room temperature, away from heat and light. For best results, take Zocor frequently. Taking Zocor at the same time(s) each day will help you to memorize.

If you fail to take a dose of Zocor, take it as soon as probable. If it is almost time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing timetable. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Avoid taking Zocor if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any component in this product.

Follow the dietary plan given by your doctor. It may take quite a few weeks for Zocor to work.

Do not stop using Zocor without first examining with your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory schedule while you are using Zocor. Laboratory and/or medical tests such as blood cholesterol levels, liver function tests, or muscle tests may be done at the start of treatment and while you are taking Zocor to check your development or to check for side effects.

Before you have any medical or dental healing, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using Zocor. Zocor may add to your risk for liver problems. Alcohol can also increase this risk. Before drinking alcohol, talk with your doctor about the safe use of Zocor and alcohol. Zocor may cause damage to your muscles specially when taken at higher doses or when taken with certain other medicinal drugs. Contact your doctor right away if you sense muscle pain or weakness, particularly with a fever.

For women: if you are able to become pregnant, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the use of effective birth control while taking Zocor. Do not use Zocor if you are pregnant. If you suspect that you could be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. It is unknown if Zocor is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Zocor.

Side effects that may occur while taking Zocor include constipation, diarrhea, or stomach upset. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience muscle aches, pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if associated with unusual tiredness and a fever; yellowing of skin or eyes; dark urine; change in the amount of urine; stomach pain; ongoing nausea or vomiting; blurred vision; or unusual bleeding or bruising.

Allergic reactions to Zocor are unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

For most excellent results, Zocor should be used along with exercise, a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, and a weight loss program if you are overweight.

Follow the dietary plan given by your doctor.

Discuss with with your doctor. Do not distribute Zocor with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use Zocor for other health situation.

Store Zocor out of the reach of children and pets. If using Zocor for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.