#39: simvastatin (Zocor) | Slow Progress of Heart Disease and Lower Cholesterol

Simvastatin is used to slow the progress of heart disease as well as lowering cholesterol in patients. It is also known by the brand name of Zocor. Simvastatin works by affecting the rate-limiting step in cholesterol synthesis. It is a competitive inhibitor of the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme. There are also other benefits such as reducing inflammation and coronary plaque sites, inhibiting platelet aggregation, as well as having an anticoagulant effect. Simvastatin is contraindicated in pregnancy and should be stopped immediately if pregnancy is suspected. Some serious side effects to be aware of are rhabdomyolysis; muscle pain, tenderness, and weakness, and dark urine. Common monitoring parameters for patients on simvastatin are lipid panels, pregnancy, hepatic transaminase levels, and CPK. In order to get the best benefit from simvastatin it is recommended to be taken in the evening.  Go to DrugCardsDaily.com for my episode show notes which will contain a drug summary, quiz, and a link to FREE drug card sheets. SUBSCRIBE on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or search for us on your favorite place to listen to podcasts. I will go over the Top 100-200 Drugs as well as throwing in some recently released drugs that peak my interest. Also, if you’d like to say hello, suggest a drug, or leave any constructive feedback on the show I’d really appreciate it! Leave a voice message at anchor.fm/drugcardsdaily or message us through twitter @drugcardsdaily