Zocor (Simvastatin) Side Effects

For most people the simvastatin side effects are outweighed by the benefits, but there are a number of people that do experience a variety of Zocor side effects on a regular basis, including the rare and life threatening allergic reaction. The cholesterol reducing benefits of Zocor can often outweigh the mild simvastatin side effects such as headache of mild nausea, but for the more severe symptoms, such as renal complication or muscle weakness, it is advised to seek immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing anything out of the ordinary, especially with your urine and muscle tenderness, it is important to seek medical attention and discuss your options with you doctor. If you are considering combining simvastatin and alcohol, asking your doctor or pharmacist should precede this decision. Discussing all of the possible side effects with your physician and pharmacist as you increase your knowledge on this or any medication will ensure that you are doing more good than harm for your body.

While the simvastatin side effects range from mild to severe it is important to pay attention to your body’s reaction and report anything unusual to your doctor, no matter how insignificant you may think that it they are. If you experience any of the following mild Zocor side effects, be sure to report and discuss with your physician as soon as possible. These include: headache; joint pain or mild muscle soreness; constipation, abdominal pain or digestive discomfort; mild nausea; mild rash; sleep disturbances; and/or cold or flu-like symptoms (congestion, sneezing, sore throat, etc.). While these simvastatin side effects aren’t life threatening, if they persist or get worse it is very important to consider the alternatives for increased quality of life.

There are a number of more severe Zocor side effects and even allergic reactions that occur and these should prompt you to stop taking the medication and seek medical attention right away. The serious simvastatin side effects include: unexplained muscle tenderness; mental confusion; fever; irregular fatigue; dark colored urine that may be painful; tissue swelling; weight gain; increased thirst or hunger; dry mouth accompanied by fruity breath odor; blurry vision; loss of appetite; and/or anything resembling jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Because of the complications that statins such as Zocor have in regards to liver and kidney function it is very important to get emergency medical attention to prevent irreparable harm.

Zocor and alcohol

Whenever you are taking any medication when taking a drink you need to be aware of the possible complications, and the simvastatin and alcohol combination is no exception. The increased simvastatin side effects on liver function are further exacerbated when combining simvastatin and alcohol. Discussing this with your doctor will make sure that you aren’t doing major damage by having a drink with your medication.