Simvastatin
Brand: Zocor
Key warning
Caution: rare serious muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis) with kidney injury
Common side effects
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Nausea
- Constipation
Key interactions & cautions
- Avoid grapefruit juice
- Higher muscle-injury risk with certain fibrates
- Some antibiotics and antifungals raise its levels
- Limit alcohol to protect the liver
Counseling points
- Take in the evening
- Report unexplained muscle pain or weakness
- Avoid grapefruit juice
- Report dark urine or yellow skin
- Continue diet and exercise
High-yield study aid for exam prep — not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.