Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Simvastatin requires a valid prescription.
Simvastatin
Generic Name: SIMVASTATIN
Simvastatin is a prodrug of 3-hydoroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor that is derived synthetically from a fermentation product of Aspergillus terreus .
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Simvastatin Used For?
- Adults with: Primary dysbetalipoproteinemia
How Does It Work?
Simvastatin acid and its metabolites are inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor of cholesterol. 12.2 Pharmacodynamics Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase by simvastatin acid accelerates the expression of LDL-receptors, followed by the uptake of LDL-C from blood to the liver, leading to a decrease in plasma LDL-C and total cholesterol.
Dosage & Administration
- Maximum recommended dosage is simvastatin tablets USP 40 mg once daily.
- An 80 mg daily dosage of simvastatin tablets USP is restricted to patients who have been taking simvastatin tablets USP 80 mg daily chronically (e.g., for 12 months or more) without evidence of muscle toxicity.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis: Risk factors include age 65 years or greater, uncontrolled hypothyroidism, renal impairment, concomitant use with certain other drugs, and higher simvastatin dosage.
- Chinese patients may be at higher risk for myopathy.
- Inform patients of the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when starting or increasing simvastatin dosage.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Concomitant use of cyclosporine, danazol or gemfibrozil [see DRUG INTERACTIONS ].
Drug Interactions
Simvastatin may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a cardiologist on Zospital
Consult a cardiologist on Zospital before starting Simvastatin. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Cardiovascular Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Simvastatin – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Simvastatin, its uses, dosage and safety.
Simvastatin is commonly prescribed in India for: Adults with: Primary dysbetalipoproteinemia. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Simvastatin is sold in India under brand names such as Zocor, Simlup, Simcard, Flolipid, Vytorin. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Simvastatin is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Simvastatin can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Insomnia, Abdominal pain, Weakness. Less common but serious side effects can include: Serious, Fatal, Anaphylaxis, Stevens-johnson, Rhabdomyolysis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Simvastatin acid and its metabolites are inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme that converts HMG-CoA to mevalonate, a precursor of cholesterol. 12.2 Pharmacodynamics Inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase by simvastatin acid accelerates the expression of LDL-receptors, followed by the uptake of LDL-C from blood to the liver, leading to a decrease in plasma LDL-C and total cholesterol.
Simvastatin can interact with: Coumarin, Obtain, Digoxin, Simvastatin, Clinical, Intervention. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Simvastatin.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Simvastatin for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Simvastatin depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Simvastatin during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹250 per strip of 10 tablets depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Simvastatin's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.