Simcor

Generic name: Simvastatin and niacin

What is Simcor?

Simcor is a combination drug used to treat elevated cholesterol in people who have an increased risk of atherosclerotic vascular disease (hardening of the arteries).

What is the most important information I should know about Simcor?

Simcor may cause skeletal muscle effects, liver enzyme abnormalities, and blood glucose level abnormalities.

Who should not take Simcor?

Do not take Simcor if you have active liver disease, a peptic ulcer, arterial bleeding, are pregnant or may become pregnant, are a nursing mother, or have a known hypersensitivity to any component to any component of this product

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Simcor?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over the counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Simcor. Also talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver problems, an ulcer, or are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults:. The dose of niacin extended-release should not be increased by more than 500 mg daily every 4 weeks.

The recommended maintenance dose for Simcor is 1000mg/20 mg to 2000mg/40 mg (two 1000mg/20 mg tablets) once daily depending on patient tolerability and lipid levels.

The maximum recommended dose is 2000mg/40 mg.

How should I take Simcor?

Simcor tablets should be taken at bedtime, after a low-fat snack. Do not crush or chew the tablet. Swallow whole. Do not take Simcor on an empty stomach.

What should I avoid while taking Simcor?

Avoid alcohol, hot beverages, and spicy food around the time you take Simcor to minimize flushing.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Simcor?

If Simcor is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Simcor with the following: amiodarone, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, danazol, erythromycin, fibrates, grapefruit juice (more than 1 quart daily); itraconazole, gemfibrozil, ketoconazole, nefazodone, protease inhibitors, telithromycin, and verapamil.

What are the possible side effects of Simcor?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: flushing, headache, itching, back pain, diarrhea, muscle pain, changes in blood glucose levels, muscle break down, liver enzyme abnormalities

Can I receive Simcor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Simcor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Simcor?

If you miss a dose, take the next scheduled dose; do not double the dose.

How should I store Simcor?

Store at room temperature.