Zocor

Medically Reviewed by Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 16, 2022

Pros & Cons


What are the pros and cons of Zocor (simvastatin)?

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  • Zocor, along with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, can lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death, especially in high-risk patients with diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and smoking.
  • Most people reach their target cholesterol numbers after 4-6 weeks of Zocor treatment.
  • Zocor not only lowers “bad cholesterol” (LDL cholesterol) but also increases “good cholesterol” (HDL cholesterol).

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  • The risk of Zocor side effects is higher in older individuals (65 years and older), in females, and in those who drink alcohol or have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or diabetes. Zocor also causes more muscle symptoms compared to other statin drugs.
  • Zocor has more drug interactions than some of the other medications in its class (statins).
  • Zocor is not safe for use during pregnancy.