Simcor
Generic Name: Simvastatin
What is Simcor?
Simcor is a combination cholesterol-lowering drug used to reduce the amounts of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) "bad" cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and apolipoprotein B (a protein needed to make cholesterol) in your blood. It is a combination of simvastatin and niacin, which both aid in lowering cholesterol via different methods.What is the most important information I should know about Simcor?
It is important to take Simcor as prescribed while following any cholesterol lowering diet your doctor may have discussed with you.Simcor may cause skeletal muscle effects, liver enzyme abnormalities, and blood sugar level abnormalities. The most serious side effect can lead to the breakdown of your muscles, and is characterized by sudden muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms while taking Simcor.
Who should not take Simcor?
Do not take Simcor if you have liver disease, a stomach ulcer, arterial bleeding, are pregnant or may become pregnant, are a nursing mother, or have a known allergy to Simcor.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 or kidney problems, an ulcer, drink alcohol on a regular basis, 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: Patients who have not previously taken niacin extended-release and those currently on niacin products other than niacin extended-release should start Simcor at a single 500 milligram (mg)/20 mg tablet daily at bedtime. 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 1000 mg/20 mg to 2000 mg/40 mg (two 1000 mg/20 mg tablets) once daily depending on your response and cholesterol levels. The maximum recommended dose is 2000 mg/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.You should undergo periodic lab tests to measure cholesterol levels, liver function, and kidney function, to monitor if Simcor is properly working to lower your cholesterol levels, and to reduce the risk of side effects.
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 (>1 quart daily), HIV medications, itraconazole, gemfibrozil, ketoconazole, nefazodone, protease inhibitors, telithromycin, or 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 sugar levels, liver enzyme abnormalities.
Call your doctor right away if you develop muscle weakness, tenderness, or pain without apparent cause as this may be a serious medical condition that needs immediate medical attention.
Can I receive Simcor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do not take Simcor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding due to the harmful effects Simcor may have on your unborn or breastfed baby. If you are a woman of child-bearing age, use an effective method of birth control to prevent pregnancy while using Simcor.What should I do if I miss a dose of Simcor?
If you miss a dose of Simcor, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Simcor?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
