Care365.caYour health is one click away
Menu

Medication guide

Simvastatin

Lowers cholesterol and reduces cardiovascular risk in eligible patients.

Check the name, strength and form on your own prescription or package.

Brand
Zocor
Form
Oral statin
Guidance checked
2026-09-08

About this medication

Lowers cholesterol and reduces cardiovascular risk in eligible patients.

How to use it

Usually taken in the evening. Do not increase to 80 mg without specialist review because muscle toxicity risk is higher.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

The Canadian reference contraindicates pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Before you use it

Avoid active liver disease and contraindicated combinations.

Possible side effects

Abdominal discomfort, constipation and gas.

When to get help

Muscle weakness with dark urine or jaundice needs prompt assessment.

Other medicines and products

Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, gemfibrozil, cyclosporine and several heart medicines require avoidance or dose limits.

Missed doses, storage and accidental exposure

Follow your own product’s missed-dose instructions. If you are unsure, ask the Care365 clinical team before taking an extra dose. Contraceptives, injections and modified-release medicines may need a specific plan.

Keep the original packaging and follow its storage, expiry and disposal instructions. Keep medicines away from children and pets. Ask about refrigeration, after-opening limits and safe sharps disposal when relevant.

For suspected overdose or accidental swallowing, contact poison control or urgent medical care promptly. Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, collapse or a seizure.

References and product information

Sources checked .

Sources checked 2026-09-08. Safety sections are highlights; consult the full product information for complete warnings and instructions.

Check the Canadian Drug Product Database by product name or DIN for current product information.

These practical points come from the Pharmasist patient handout for the same product monograph cited by this guide.

This is a plain-language guide, not the complete monograph. Match the name, strength and form on your package before using product-specific directions.

← Browse all medication guides

Explore care options