Simvastatin is a medication that controls cholesterol, reducing heart attack and stroke
risk. This video will break down all the important questions you may have about this medication.
Simvastatin belongs to a group of medications known as statins.
These medications control blood cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Statins work by reducing the production of LDL cholesterol in the liver. This cholesterol is
essential to produce bile in your liver. Because your liver is now not producing cholesterol,
your liver sources its cholesterol needs from those circulating in your blood.
This action has the net effect to reduce your blood cholesterol levels.
Is there anyone who should not take Simvastatin?
It is best to speak with your doctor before taking this medication
if you have any of the following conditions:
• You have experienced a prior allergic reaction to simvastatin, or other statins.
• You suffer from Liver disease or have a high alcohol intake.
• You have hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid.
Additionally….
• Individuals with a history of muscle disorders may be at an increased risk of side effects.
Is Simvastatin safe in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
Simvastatin is not safe for use in pregnancy. This medication can harm your baby. You must
stop this medication at least three months before attempting to conceive.
If you are planning to get pregnant discuss this with your doctor early.
Additionally, if you are sexually active, you must use effective contraception.
Manufacturers of simvastatin also advise avoiding the use of this medication if breastfeeding.
What is the correct dose of Simvastatin?
Simvastatin doses typically range from between 10MG to 80MG once daily. The dose prescribed
will be dependent on your doctor’s reason for starting this medication.
It is also quite common for your doctor to review your blood tests
after at least four weeks to optimise your dosing.
How to take Simvastatin
Simvastatin should be taken once daily, usually at night. You can take this
medication with or without food, but always take simvastatin with a large glass of water
How long will I need to take my medication?
Most individuals prescribed simvastatin will usually continue this medication lifelong.
Over the long term, keeping blood cholesterol controlled
will help reduce the risk for heart attacks and stroke.
How long does it take for Simvastatin to work?
Simvastatin usually takes around four weeks to show the needed improvement in cholesterol levels.
Therefore, your prescribing doctor will usually request a blood test around this time
to assess your response to treatment.
Most, prior to commencing simvastatin, will not have experienced any signs or symptoms
of high cholesterol. Therefore, you are unlikely to feel different whilst taking this medication.
Are there any foods I should avoid?
If you are taking simvastatin, you must avoid any grapefruit products. This is because grapefruits
contain a chemical that can interfere with your body’s ability to naturally break down statins.
Therefore, grapefruit significantly raises blood levels of simvastatin,
increasing your risk of side effects.
Can I Drink Alcohol with this medication?
Drinking alcohol alongside your medication is safe, providing you do so in moderation.
Drinking alcohol in excess can have a negative effect, increasing your risk of side effects.
I have missed my dose. What should I do?
If you forget to take your Simvastatin on time,
do not worry, take it as soon as you remember. However, if you only remember the following day
skip the missed dose. Remember to take your next dose at the regular time.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
I have accidentally taken too much medication.
Accidentally taking an extra dose of simvastatin is unlikely to be harmful. However, if you are
concerned that you may have taken more than this it is best to consult your doctor.
Are there any side effects?
Fortunately, most will not experience any side effects.
However, as with all medications, side effects can occur.
Common side-effects
you should discuss with your doctor are: • Headaches, dizziness, sleep disturbance,
Tiredness or feeling weak • Nausea, indigestion,
flatulence, constipation, or diarrhoea • Lowering your blood platelets
o And… • Mild muscle aches
Rarely, people may experience more concerning side effects.
The primary concern, when taking statins, is the development of muscle inflammation and damage.
Therefore, if you experience muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness it is important to
consult your prescribing Doctor. The presence of muscle breakdown can be confirmed with a blood
test called CK, where elevated levels indicate muscle damage. In these cases, your doctor will
stop your medication, later considering an alternative or restarting at a lower dose.
If you experience any of the following,
please consult with your doctor urgently: • Muscle weakness, Pain, or Tenderness
• Altered sensation • Inflammation of the liver,
where sufferers may experience flu-like symptoms o OR
• Inflammation of the pancreas, associated with abdominal pains
Allergic reactions are concerning as they may be life-threatening.
Fortunately, life-threatening allergic reactions are rare.
Those with serious allergic reactions should call emergency services for assistance. Symptoms of a
severe allergic reaction can include: • Swelling of the face,
lips, mouth, and throat • Difficulty breathing,
wheezing or chest tightness • Allergic skin rash
Of course, this list is not exhaustive. For a full list of side effects refer
to the drug information leaflet that comes with your medications.
I hope this video has supplied the answers you were looking for. Thank you for watching,
we will see you in the next one
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