What it is used for
- High cholesterol (raised LDL)
- High triglycerides
- Reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at risk
- Helping prevent worsening of artery disease
How it works
Simvastatin blocks the liver enzyme HMG-CoA reductase that makes cholesterol. This prompts the liver to remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood, lowering cholesterol levels and helping protect the arteries.
How it is taken
Usually supplied as oral tablets, typically taken once a day, often in the evening. Take it exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist and as shown on the label. It is most effective combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Muscle aches or mild muscle pain
- Headache
- Constipation or other tummy upset
- Nausea
- Cold-like symptoms
Serious effects — get help
- Severe, unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, especially with fever or dark urine - seek urgent care
- Signs of liver trouble: yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, extreme tiredness
- Serious allergic reaction: facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing, severe rash
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Certain antibiotics and antifungals
- Some HIV and hepatitis C medicines
- Other lipid-lowering drugs such as fibrates and niacin
- Certain heart and blood-pressure medicines (e.g. amlodipine, diltiazem, verapamil) and ciclosporin
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice (a known interaction with simvastatin)
- Heavy alcohol use
Who should take care
- Avoid in pregnancy and while breastfeeding unless your clinician advises otherwise - tell them if you are or might be pregnant
- Report any liver disease or heavy alcohol intake
- Mention kidney problems or an underactive thyroid
- Tell your clinician about any past muscle disorders
- Grapefruit is particularly relevant with simvastatin - ask your pharmacist about it