{"id":53457,"date":"2022-08-29T15:56:31","date_gmt":"2022-08-29T19:56:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=53457"},"modified":"2025-10-07T10:05:33","modified_gmt":"2025-10-07T14:05:33","slug":"simvastatin-side-effects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/simvastatin-side-effects\/","title":{"rendered":"Simvastatin side effects and how to avoid them"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#common-simvastatin-side-effects\">Common simvastatin side effects<\/a> |<a href=\"#serious-side-effects\"> Serious side effects<\/a> | <a href=\"#cognitive-side-effects\">Cognitive side effects<\/a> | <a href=\"#myopathy\">Myopathy<\/a> | <a href=\"#constipation\">Constipation<\/a> | <a href=\"#side-effects-timeline\">Side effects timeline<\/a> | <a href=\"#contraindications\">Contraindications<\/a> | <a href=\"#warnings\">Warnings<\/a> | <a href=\"#interactions\">Interactions<\/a> | <a href=\"#how-to-avoid-side-effects\">How to avoid side effects<\/a> | <a href=\"#how-to-treat-side-effects\">How to treat side effects<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/simvastatin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014also prescribed as brand-name <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/zocor\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zocor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014is a generic prescription drug used to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/high-cholesterol-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reduce total cholesterol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), and triglycerides (fats) in the bloodstream.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin treatment is most appropriate for people with high LDL cholesterol, high triglyceride levels, or hereditary high cholesterol. It\u2019s also FDA approved to help prevent heart attack, stroke, and death in people with heart disease, blood vessel disease, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/type-2-diabetes-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">diabetes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as well as people who have risk factors for cardiovascular disease. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/statins\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Statins<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are common prescription drugs. They block an enzyme\u2014HMG-CoA reductase\u2014responsible for the body\u2019s synthesis of cholesterol. Healthcare professionals sometimes call them HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, but it\u2019s easier just to call them statins. Like other statins, simvastatin has a variety of possible side effects, including pain, liver problems, kidney problems, and raised blood sugar. In general, though, many people will find long-term treatment with simvastatin to be relatively problem-free.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"common-simvastatin-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of simvastatin<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upper respiratory infections are the most common complaint among simvastatin users. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=30fbaf9e-01cf-492a-b44f-dc81c17d7647\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In clinical trials<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the incidence was close to 1 in 10 participants. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Zocor-simvastatin-402\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In order of likelihood<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, side effects may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upper respiratory infections<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomach pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atrial fibrillation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/gastritis-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gastritis<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vertigo<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insomnia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fluid retention<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swollen sinuses<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Memory problems and amnesia<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confusion<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"serious-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious side effects of simvastatin<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/143805\/simvastatin\/Adverse-Reactions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">serious side effects of simvastatin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/atrial-fibrillation-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atrial fibrillation<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver damage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney failure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tendon rupture<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood disorders<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/pancreatitis-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swollen pancreas<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lung disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/lupus-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lupus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">-like symptoms<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Severe allergic reactions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious skin conditions<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can simvastatin cause sleep problems?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In simvastatin\u2019s initial clinical trials, about 4% of participants reported problems with sleep. However, that was nearly the same incidence as participants who were given a placebo, indicating the drug may have little to do with the problem. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4624738\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A review of sleep studies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> concerning statins concluded that statins have no significant effect on falling asleep or staying asleep. Sleeplessness has many causes. If it\u2019s a problem when taking simvastatin, ask the prescribing healthcare provider for medical advice.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"cognitive-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cognitive side effects of simvastatin<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cognitive side effects, like memory problems and confusion, may be an issue with simvastatin and related drugs. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Zocor-simvastatin-402\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">estimated incidence<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is that 1% of patients will experience memory impairment, 1% will experience amnesia (memory loss), and 1% will feel confused at times when taking simvastatin. These problems may be<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19558254\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> dose-related<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, meaning there is a greater risk at higher doses. Confusion and memory problems may significantly impair daily living. If this becomes a concern when taking simvastatin, report it to the prescribing healthcare provider. These problems usually improve when the drug is stopped.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"myopathy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Myopathy<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Statins such as simvastatin are associated with muscle complaints, including damage, inflammation, and pain. People experiencing statin-induced myopathy report <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bmj.com\/content\/337\/bmj.a2286.full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">problems<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as muscle pain, tenderness, cramping, weakness, and tendon problems. The exact incidence is unknown. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8583847\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some estimate the incidence to be as high as 25%<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but simvastatin\u2019s clinical trials suggest the number may be closer to 4%. No one knows for certain why statins harm muscles in some people, but there may be higher risk due to age, genetics, medical conditions, and drug interactions. If simvastatin treatment is causing problems, talk to the prescribing healthcare provider. The dose may be reduced, or stopped if there is severe muscle damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"constipation\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation is a common side effect of simvastatin. Initial clinical trials put the incidence at about 2%, but the real-world incidence may be more than <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Zocor-simvastatin-402\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6%<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If constipation occurs when taking any drug, the best advice is to consult with the prescribing healthcare provider.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"side-effects-timeline\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How soon do simvastatin side effects start?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin\u2019s peak concentration in the bloodstream occurs in about four hours. Some mild and serious side effects can occur early in treatment, while others take several weeks or months of treatment to become problematic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long do simvastatin side effects last?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some simvastatin side effects may improve over time. Others, including memory loss, cognitive impairment, and muscle pain, are reversible once the drug has been stopped. With a half-life of four to five hours, simvastatin levels fall to less than 10% of their peak in 10 hours. Typically, problems like headaches and nausea will resolve by then. Some problems, such as muscle damage, liver damage, or kidney damage may take longer to get better.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the long-term side effects of simvastatin?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most healthcare professionals consider simvastatin a safe drug for long-term use. Many of the most publicized and severe side effects such as muscle problems, liver problems, kidney problems, and cognitive problems are typically delayed effects, so they are more likely to occur as simvastatin treatment persists or if <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/simvastatin\/dosage\">doses go up<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"contraindications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin contraindications<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because simvastatin\u2019s side effects could worsen some conditions, simvastatin is never prescribed to people with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver failure or advanced cirrhosis<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allergy to statin drugs<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin should not be used during pregnancy, though the FDA does allow for its use in some individuals at high risk of complications from lipid disease. Simvastatin can harm the fetus, and statin treatment is usually not necessary during pregnancy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breastfeeding<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breastfeeding is not recommended for women who are taking simvastatin. Risks and benefits for individuals should be discussed with a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin is FDA approved to treat children 10 years of age and older for congenital high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia). Because cholesterol is important for development, the use of statins in very young children is discouraged.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seniors<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People older than 65 have an increased risk of muscle problems when taking simvastatin. In addition, simvastatin levels in the blood are higher in older people, so healthcare providers are urged to use doses that are as low as possible. Liver function as measured by blood tests will need to be regularly performed.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"warnings\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin warnings<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although statins such as simvastatin are generally safe to take, some people may have problems requiring extra caution or monitoring.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"warnings\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cautions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because of simvastatin\u2019s side effects and its effects on the liver, it\u2019s used with caution in people with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver problems<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic alcohol abuse<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Underactive thyroid<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People who may become pregnant<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">People of Chinese descent have an increased risk of developing muscle problems when taking simvastatin. Extra monitoring may be required.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Abuse and dependence<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin is not a drug that has a high potential for abuse. There is no known risk for physical dependence. Although discontinuing simvastatin will not cause unpleasant withdrawal effects, anytime a statin is stopped, cholesterol levels may rise.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Overdose<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Call a poison control center or get medical attention if too much simvastatin is taken. Most people are prescribed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/143801\/simvastatin\/Adult-Dosing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20\u201380 mg per day<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">; the absolute maximum is 80 mg per day. Although there may not be immediate issues when exceeding the prescribed dose, repeated overdoses increase the risk of muscle or liver damage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"interactions\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin interactions<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Because of potentially hazardous drug interactions, simvastatin is never prescribed with certain prescription drugs, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/macrolides\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">macrolide antibiotics<\/span><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/clarithromycin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">clarithromycin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/erythromycin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">erythromycin<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The azole <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antifungals\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antifungals<\/span><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/ketoconazole\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ketoconazole<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/itraconazole\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">itraconazole<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/voriconazole\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">voriconazole<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/posaconazole\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">posaconazole<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and levoketoconazole<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/hiv-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HIV\/AIDS<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drugs including saquinavir, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/ritonavir\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ritonavir<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/atazanavir-sulfate\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">atazanavir<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, nelfinavir, darunavir, and the antiviral booster cobicistat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some cancer drugs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cholesterol medication <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/gemfibrozil\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">gemfibrozil<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antidepressants\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">antidepressant<\/span><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/nefazodone-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">nefazodone<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The immune suppressant <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/cyclosporine\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cyclosporine<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The testosterone drug <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/danazol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">danazol<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/mifepristone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mifepristone<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most (but not all) of these drugs block the liver enzyme that breaks down simvastatin. The result is a hazardous increase in simvastatin serum levels, raising the risk of serious side effects such as muscle damage and liver damage. These contraindicated drugs are so good at blocking this enzyme that they can\u2019t be safely taken with simvastatin. Other drugs also block this enzyme but not so powerfully. They can be used with simvastatin, but side effects must be monitored, and doses may need adjusting. These include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some macrolide antibiotics<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/quinolones\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">quinolone antibiotics<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some azole antifungals<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/calcium-channel-blockers\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Calcium channel blockers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/blood-pressure-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood pressure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> drugs such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/verapamil-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">verapamil<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/diltiazem-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">diltiazem<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antiarrhythmics\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">heart rhythm drugs<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/niacin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Niacin<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Grapefruit and grapefruit juice<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cranberries and cranberry juice<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some drugs do the opposite: they speed up the body\u2019s metabolism of simvastatin, reducing the ability of simvastatin to lower cholesterol and fats. These drugs include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/anticonvulsants\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anticonvulsants<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/benzodiazepines\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benzodiazepines<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Barbiturates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/tuberculosis-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tuberculosis<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> antibiotic <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/rifampin\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rifampin<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/st-johns-wort\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">St. John\u2019s wort<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, healthcare providers are wary about combining simvastatin, a drug that can damage muscles, with other drugs that can damage muscles. These include <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/fibrates\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fibrate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> cholesterol drugs like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/fenofibrate\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">fenofibrate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/corticosteroids\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">corticosteroids<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/drug-classes\/antimalarials\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">malaria drugs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and alcohol.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-avoid-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to avoid simvastatin side effects<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Though generally without problems, statin use can cause side effects. Sometimes side effects can be avoided. Here are a few tips to lower the risk.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Take simvastatin as directed<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best way to maximize the benefits and minimize side effects is to follow the instructions when taking this medicine. Above all, don\u2019t take too much. If a dose is missed, it can be taken when remembered, unless it\u2019s almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled to avoid taking too much at one time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Take simvastatin in the evening<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To maximize the benefits of taking this drug, take each dose in the evening. This may help with side effects, too.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Inform the prescriber about all medical problems<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Besides taking the medicine correctly, another sure way to avoid the side effects of statins is to make sure the prescribing healthcare provider has a complete picture of your health conditions. For simvastatin, the prescriber will particularly need to know about:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kidney disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hypothyroidism<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle pain or muscle weakness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy or plans on getting pregnant<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breastfeeding or breastfeeding plans<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Inform the prescriber about any drugs being taken<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drug interactions are another perennial source of side effects. Unfortunately, the list of drugs, supplements, and foods that cause problems with simvastatin is long. The best advice is to tell the prescriber about all over-the-counter and prescription drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies being taken.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Avoid alcohol<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drinking too much alcohol is not safe when taking simvastatin because it increases the risk that simvastatin will cause serious liver damage. Every once in a while is okay, but try to avoid overdoing it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Avoid grapefruit<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Believe it or not, grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the risk of simvastatin side effects. Healthcare professionals generally advise it be taken out of the diet. Cranberries and cranberry juice could also cause the same problem. So do niacin supplements, so talk to the prescriber if niacin or vitamin B3 supplements are part of the daily routine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Keep all follow-up appointments\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To avoid serious side effects, follow-up appointments are necessary. Regular blood tests, for instance, help detect problems with the muscles or liver before they blow up into serious medical conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-treat-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to treat side effects of simvastatin<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most simvastatin side effects can be managed at home. Many will get better over time. Some side effects, though, will require the help of a healthcare professional.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle problems<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stop taking simvastatin and contact a healthcare professional if muscles start to hurt or become weak. If simvastatin is affecting the muscles, it may become hard to lift your arms or climb stairs. A healthcare professional may need to perform a blood test to confirm that muscles are being damaged.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Memory problems<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If things are easily forgotten, or you start feeling confused or disoriented, talk to the prescribing healthcare provider. Reduced doses may help, but some people may need to switch to a different statin or a different type of cholesterol drug.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver problems<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If simvastatin starts affecting the liver, it may not be evident. Blood tests are usually required. Stop the drug and see a healthcare provider if any of these signs of liver problems are noticed:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dark urine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pale stools<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appetite loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Throwing up<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yellowing of the skin or eyes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sources<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/online.epocrates.com\/drugs\/143801\/simvastatin\/Adult-Dosing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Epocrates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pdr.net\/drug-summary\/Zocor-simvastatin-402\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin drug summary<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Prescriber\u2019s Digital Reference<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=30fbaf9e-01cf-492a-b44f-dc81c17d7647\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simvastatin tablet prescribing information<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, U.S. National Library of Medicine<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4624738\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sleep changes following statin therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled polysomnographic trials<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Archives of Medical Science<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/19558254\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Statin-associated adverse cognitive effects: survey results from 171 patients<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pharmacotherapy<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bmj.com\/content\/337\/bmj.a2286.full\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Statin-induced myopathy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BMJ<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5830056\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The role of statins in both cognitive impairment and protection against dementia: a tale of two mechanisms<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Translational Neurodegeneration<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Common simvastatin side effects | Serious side effects | Cognitive side effects | Myopathy | Constipation | Side effects timeline | Contraindications | Warnings | Interactions | How to avoid side effects | How to treat side effects Simvastatin\u2014also prescribed as brand-name Zocor\u2014is a generic prescription drug used to reduce total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":53458,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4589],"tags":[737,12752],"coauthors":[8861],"class_list":["post-53457","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-info","tag-heart-health","tag-medication-side-effects","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Simvastatin side effects and how to avoid them | SingleCare<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Sleep problems, myopathy, and constipation are common simvastatin side effects. 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