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Simvastatin

Brand names: Zocor

Simvastatin is a statin that lowers LDL cholesterol and the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Brand namesZocor
Type of medicineStatin (cholesterol medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It slows the liver's production of cholesterol. It works best with a healthy diet and exercise.

What it's used for

  • High LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke

How to take it

  • Take it once a day in the evening.
  • Keep taking it even if you feel well.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Muscle aches
  • Constipation or stomach pain
  • Headache
Call your provider todayUnexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
Call your provider todayDark urine
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes

Warnings

  • Muscle problems are more likely at high doses and with many interacting medicines.
  • Not used during pregnancy.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Avoid grapefruit juice.
  • Many medicines raise simvastatin to unsafe levels, including clarithromycin, itraconazole, ketoconazole, some HIV medicines, gemfibrozil, and cyclosporine.
  • Amlodipine, diltiazem, verapamil, and amiodarone limit how much simvastatin can be taken.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Statins are generally stopped during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.