Simvastatin blocks the production of cholesterol (a type of fat) in the body.

Simvastatin is used to reduce the total amounts of cholesterol, triglycerides (another type of fat), LDL (bad) cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B (a protein needed to make cholesterol) in your blood. Simvastatin (Zocor) is also used to increase the level of HDL (good) cholesterol in your blood. These actions may reduce the risk of hardening of the arteries, stroke, which can lead to heart attacks, and peripheral vascular disease.

Simvastatin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Special precautions

Do not take simvastatin without first talking to your doctor if you have liver disease.

Before taking simvastatin, tell your doctor if you

• have a blood disorder
• have a chronic muscular disease, or
• drink alcoholic beverages,
• have kidney disease,

* Simvastatin is in the FDA pregnancy category X. This means that simvastatin will cause birth defects if it is taken during pregnancy. Cholesterol is very important for the proper development of a baby. Do not take simvastatin if you are pregnant or if you are planning a pregnancy.

* It is not known whether simvastatin passes into breast milk. Do not take simvastatin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

* Simvastatin is not approved for use by children.

Side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking simvastatin and call your doctor immediately:

• yellowing of your skin or eyes
• blurred vision; or
• decreased urine or rust-colored urine;
• "flu-like" symptoms;
• muscle aches, pain or weakness;
• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; closing of your throat; or hives)

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take simvastatin and talk to your doctor if you experience

• insomnia
• headache; or
• cough;
• gas, constipation, abdominal pain, heartburn, stomach upset, nausea, bloating, or diarrhea;

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Keep all appointment with your doctor.

Don’t let anyone else take your medicines.