Simvastatin, also known as Zocor, is a medication prescribed to lower high cholesterol, specifically LDL cholesterol. It works by blocking the production of cholesterol in your body, thus reducing your risk of heart attack, stroke and vascular disease. Before taking simvastatin, you should be aware of its side effects and discus them with your doctor to ensure it is the right medication for you.
Common Side Effects
Some of the most common simvastatin side effects, according to eMedTV.com, include gas (flatulence), diarrhea, constipation, weakness, indigestion, nausea, headaches and susceptibility to upper respiratory infections. Abdominal pain and myalgia (muscle pain or tenderness) are also side effects you may experience. These side effects are not considered to be a risk to your health and will generally subside shortly after you begin your treatment. If they continue or worsen, speak to your doctor, as you may need an adjustment in your dose.
Serious Side Effects
Simvastatin can also cause severe side effects which do pose a health risk. In these cases, it is important for you to call your doctor immediately. Serious side effects include fever that accompanies muscle pain or weakness, dark urine, rapid heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, and numbness or tingling of the hands or feet. Any changes in your vision, unusual bleeding or bruising, and severe dizziness should also be reported. These side effects tend to occur when coupled with another cholesterol-lowering drug such as niacin.
Liver Damage
Simvastatin can cause liver damage, reports the Mayo Clinic. This may result in conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatoma (liver cancer), fatty liver and hepatitis. The most common symptoms of liver damage include nausea, abdominal pain in the upper right side, low-grade fever, and yellowed skin or eyes. Contact your doctor immediately if you display any of these signs.
Warnings
Simvastatin may produce additional side effects which do not fit neatly into one specific category. According to eMedTV.com, these include loss of memory, insomnia, anxiety and depression. Muscle cramps which are ignored or left untreated can lead to a condition known as rhabdomyolysis (a breakdown of the muscle). Impotence, eczema, rash, development of breasts in men and boys, and vertigo (a spinning sensation) are also worthy of your doctor's attention.
