Simvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood or to raise HDL levels.Simvastatin may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor. Simvastatin may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. IF YOU ARE TAKING 1 DOSE A DAY, take your dose in the evening or at bedtime as directed by your doctor. AVOID DRINKING GRAPEFRUIT JUICE while taking Simvastatin . STORE Simvastatin at room temperature, away from heat and light. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with Simvastatin . INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. DO NOT TAKE Simvastatin if you are also taking mibefradil, HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir), macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin, troleandomycin), or nefazodone. Use caution if the following drugs are combined with Simvastatin because serious side effects (such as myopathy) infrequently could occur: fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil, fenofibrate). ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking amiodarone, colestipol, cholestyramine, niacin, cyclosporine, dalfopristin, digoxin, verapamil, blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), diltiazem, rifamycins (e.g., rifampin), or azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole).
No common Simvastatin side effects HAVE BEEN REPORTED with the proper use of this medicine. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience Simvastatin side effects like muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if associated with fever and a general feeling of discomfort; rash; yellow skin or eyes; or unusual bleeding or bruising. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience the following Simvastatin side effects or symptoms of toxicity: swelling of hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness. If you notice other Simvastatin side effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.