Simvastatin, sold under the brand name Zocor, lowers cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, which decreases the risk of stroke, heart attack and other heart complications. Although taking simvastatin often proves beneficial for some individuals, patients should always consult a doctor about the potential side effects or risks of taking this medication.
Mild Side Effects
Headache, sleep problems, mild skin rash, mild muscle pain, stomach pain or indigestion, joint pain, mild nausea, constipation or cold symptoms may occur while taking simvastatin, according to Drugs.com. These side effects are generally not considered serious and only need to be reported to a doctor if they are particularly bothersome.
Serious Side Effects
Unexplained muscle pain or weakness, jaundice, changes in urination, unusual stools, appetite loss, upper stomach pain, swelling, weight gain, fever and unusual tiredness may be signs that simvastatin is causing serious medical complications, according to Drugs.com. Report these symptoms or seek medical attention immediately if these side effects occur.
Interactions
The effects of simvastatin may be increased, decreased or altered when taken with other supplements or medications. These include, but are not limited to, voriconazole, verapamil, telithromycin, St. John's wort, dalfopristin, spironolactone, ritonavir, risperidone, rifampin, nefazodone, mibefradil, tacrolimus, ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole, niacin, erythromycin, diltiazem, digoxin, delavirdine, danazol, cyclosporine, clarithromycin, carbamazepine, bosentan, warfarin and amiodarone, according to information published on the Physicians' Desktop Reference website. Some food and drinks may also react negatively with simvastatin and produce unwelcome or potentially dangerous side effects. These include foods high in fat or cholesterol, alcohol, grapefruit and grapefruit juice. Patients taking simvastatin should always talk to a doctor about their questions or concerns regarding this medication.
Considerations
Individuals with a history of kidney or liver disease, diabetes, a thyroid disorder and those who drink more than two alcoholic drinks each day may be at an increased risk of developing certain serious side effects or medical complications when taking simvastatin, according to MedlinePlus. These individuals should always thoroughly discuss their medical history with a doctor before using this medication. If a doctor prescribes simvastatin despite their medical background, these individuals should remain vigilant about keeping all doctor appointments to ensure the medication is not producing any harmful effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Issues
Simvastatin is an FDA pregnancy category X medication, which means it may cause birth defects or harm an unborn baby when taken during pregnancy. This medication also may pass into breast milk and harm a breastfeeding infant. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not use this medication. Women of childbearing age should not use this medication unless becoming pregnancy is highly unlikely, according to information published on the Physicians' Desktop Reference website.
Warning
Simvastatin may cause an increased risk of muscle injury in patients taking the highest approved dose compared to those taking lower doses or using other statin class medications, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. As of 2010, the FDA is reviewing data and studies to better understand the relationship between these muscle injuries and simvastatin. Patients considering the use of simvastatin should discuss this issue with their doctors for the latest research on the subject.
