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Simvastatin - Uses - Dosages - Side Effects - Precautions

Simvastatin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Simvastatin?

Simvastatin is a drug used to lower bad cholesterol and fats such as LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. These drugs also elevate the good cholesterol in the body. Simvastatin belongs to a class of drugs called ‘statins.’ These work directly on the liver by reducing bad cholesterol and lowering the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

What are the uses of Simvastatin?

Simvastatin is a ‘statin’ drug that increases the good cholesterol in the body and nullifies the bad cholesterol. It is usually prescribed in conjunction with lifestyle changes such as a healthy and balanced diet and exercise. The medicine is usually taken orally with or without food. Liquid doses are taken on an empty stomach.

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What are the side effects of Simvastatin?

People who use this mediation usually do not suffer from severe side effects. A tiny percentage of people may sometimes experience memory problems and confusion. If these occur, it is a good idea to speak to your doctor. In some races, muscular issues are common. If these are found to occur, consult a doctor right away.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Simvastatin

1. Can Simvastatin cause hair loss?

Both Atorvastatin and Simvastatin are cholesterol-reducing medications, and hair loss is a side effect of both these drugs. Newer drugs such as Rosuvastatin do not cause this problem. While hair loss can occur, it is rare. As cholesterol is a building block for steroid hormones which have a role in hair growth, its reduction in the body could lead to hair loss.

2. What is the maximum dose of Simvastatin?

The regular dosage of Simvastatin is between 5 and 40 mg/ day. In patients suffering from CHD, Simvastatin can be started almost immediately along with lifestyle changes and diet. The maximum dose for this drug is 40 mg per day, but this is usually prescribed for patients who suffer from stroke, diabetes, or very severe heart disease.

3. Can Simvastatin cause muscle pain?

When taken in high doses beyond that of 40 mg, Simvastatin may be more likely to cause muscular pain than some other statins. Changing your dosage or medication is advisable if the pain gets severe. Speak to your doctor for the same.

4. Can Simvastatin cause weight loss?

Drugs such as Statins work by improving the microbiota found in the gut, which helps obese individuals shed weight. Gut imbalances are said to lead to conditions like obesity. The intake of drugs such as Simvastatin can help balance out the level of microbes found in the gut.

5. Can I take Simvastatin and Amlodipine at the same time?

It is advisable not to take the two drugs together. Concurrent use of Amlodipine and Simvastatin is said to increase blood levels. This can impact the liver by causing liver damage. It can also lead to a more severe condition that leads to a breakdown of the skeletal muscle tissue.

6. Can Simvastatin cause kidney disease?

Many studies have been conducted on the drug Simvastatin, and some of them indicate that high-dose statins are 35% more likely to cause damage to the kidneys, mainly in the first 120 days of treatment. Low doses, though, are not known to affect the kidneys.

7. Is Simvastatin a Diuretic?

No, Simvastatin is not a Diuretic. It belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which are used to lower bad fats and bad cholesterol in the body. On the other hand, Diuretics help the kidneys eliminate extra water and salt from the body, especially when patients are prone to water retention in the body.

8. Can Simvastatin be crushed?

Yes, Simvastatin can be crushed or diluted in water and given. However, they have a bitter and acrid taste and may be unpleasant on the tongue if crushed. They are best taken orally with a glass of water.

9. What should you avoid while taking Simvastatin?

If you are allergic to Simvastatin, it is wise to inform the doctor about it. It is also advisable to tell the doctor if you are suffering from liver disease, kidney disease, or alcohol addiction, as these underlying conditions may negatively interact with the drug.

10. Is it better to take Simvastatin in the morning or at night?

Simvastatin is a drug that is usually taken in the evening, once. If you take a tablet form, it can be consumed with or without food. If you take it in liquid form, make sure you shake the bottle well before use.

11. How long should you take Simvastatin?

The dosage of Simvastatin usually differs from person to person and depends on the severity of the underlying disease. In patients suffering from severe heart disease, the use of statins can go for as long as 120 days, along with a vigorous diet and exercise problem as advised by the doctor.

Consult our cardiac experts at Yashoda Hospitals now!

 

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      Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.