Simvastatin--known also by the brand name Zocor--is a cholesterol-lowering medication prescribed when diet and exercise alone do not work, Drugs.com explains. People with high cholesterol generally face a higher risk of developing heart disease, as well as suffering a heart attack or stroke. Simvastatin may help lower these risks though the medication does carry a risk of side effects.
Constipation
Constipation affects 2.3 percent of patients taking simvastatin during clinical trials, according to eMedTV. This is a condition causing small amounts of dry, hard stools that are difficult and painful to pass. While some people believe they are experiencing constipation if they do not have a bowel movement everyday, medically speaking, it is only true constipation when bowel movements occur three times or less in the course of a week.
Adding additional fiber to the diet, exercising and drinking more water can help soften the stool and keep the bowel active, making it easier to pass stool through the digestive tract.
Headaches
Drugs.com cites headaches as one of the most common side effects of simvastatin, occurring in 3.5 percent of patients during clinical trials. This side effect can also be accompanied by pain in the face, neck and mouth. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide relief. The advice of the prescribing doctor should be sought, however, to ensure no drug interactions or if headaches persist or worsen.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a side effect experienced by 1.9 percent of patients taking the simvastatin during clinical trials, according to eMedTV. It is characterized by loose, watery stools that occur more than three times a day; in most cases, it subsides once the body adjusts to the medication. During this time, however, it is important to remain hydrated by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day. Clear broth is helpful as well, along with clear juice. An over-the-counter medication anti-diarrheal medication may be recommended by the prescribing doctor to combat this side effect.
