Side effects
Side effects are rarely reported while taking Zocor®. Increased liver values (transaminases) may occur. Other side effects may include gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (diarrhea) or constipation.
Sleeping disorders, depression, non-specific headaches, skin rash or dizziness may also occur. It is important to know that statins and thus also simvastatin can cause nerve damage. This can cause numbness and muscle twitching. It is important to inform your doctor so that Zocor® can be discontinued and a new treatment plan can be developed. Particularly in diabetics, care should be taken to ensure that they are taking a medication containing statins, as deafness is often falsely attributed to diabetes, and Zocor® may be the underlying cause.
Contraindications and interactions
Of course, Zocor® should not be taken if there is an allergy or hypersensitivity to the active ingredient simvastatin or any of the other components of the drug. In addition, Zocor® should not be taken if there is an existing liver disease. This can be aggravated by Zocor®.
The drug should also not be administered during pregnancy. Also, Zocor® or simvastatin and macrolides (antibiotics) should not be taken together. Macrolides inhibit the breakdown of Zocor® and thus increase the concentration in the blood.
This can lead to myopathies (disease of the muscles) and rhabdomyolysis (dissolution of muscle fibers of striated muscles). Zocor® should also not be used in combination with gemfibrozil (treatment of lipid metabolism disorders) or ciclospoprin A (immunosuppressant). Also, antifungals should not be taken at the same time as Zocor®.If non-prescription drugs are being taken, the treating physician should be informed beforehand, who can provide information about possible interactions. In case of uncertainty, the doctor should always be consulted to avoid dangerous interactions!
