Zocor

Drug General Information

Zocor belongs to the group of hmg-coa reductase inhibitors used to lower the level of bad cholesterol and triglyceride in your blood, while at the same time increasing the level of good cholesterol. This drug is to be combined with a low-fat diet for optimal results.

It is not recommended to use Zocor in case you are currently taking fibrates (gemfibrozil), HIV protease inhibitors, itraconazole, ketoconazole, macrolide antibiotics, troleandomycin, nefazodone or high-dose niacin.

Inform your doctor about the fact of taking amiodarone, "blood thinners", imatinib, rifamycins, St. John's wort, verapamil or voriconazole, as additional monitoring of your condition or dose adjustment might be required.

Such medical conditions as low blood pressure; severe infection; uncontrolled seizures; or serious metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte problems are likely to cause serious consequences and result in kidney problems.

Medicine taking

Follow the directions on the label and those provided by your doctor. Zocor is to be taken on an empty stomach or with some food. In case of taking this tablet once a day it is recommended to take it at bedtime unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor.

It is not recommended to drink grapefruit juice during the period of treatment with Zocor.

The missed dose is to be taken immediately as soon as you remember, the remaining doses are to be taken at regular intervals. However, if according to the schedule the next dose is to be taken within a short period of time, it’s recommended to skip the missed dose and take the rest of the days’ doses as specified.

Precautions

The use of this medicine combined with alcohol might increase the risk of developing liver disease. Consult your doctor in order to earn about the danger of using alcohol simultaneously.

Inform your doctor of the fact of taking his medicine before having any kind of surgery.

For women: If you are pregnant or might conceive during the period of treatment, consult your doctor to learn about the benefits and risks of taking this medicine. If you are breast-feeding, make sure you consult your doctor before using this drug.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects you might experience when taking this drug include constipation, diarrhea or stomach upset. If these symptoms continue or appear to be bothersome, contact your doctor.

Contact your doctor immediately in case of experiencing muscle pain, tenderness, jaundice, dark urine, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, unusual bleeding or bruising.

An allergic reaction is unlikely. The main symptoms include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.

Storage

This drug is to be stored in a hermetic container away from direct light, heat or moisture. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use the drug past its expiry date.

Overdose

In case of the drug overdose immediately contact the doctor.

Additional Information

Combine this drug with a balanced diet for optimal results.

Do not share this drug with those to whom it was not prescribed. Use this drug only to treat specific medical conditions as prescribed by your doctor. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

If you are currently taking other drugs and are not sure about their interaction with this one, consult your doctor to learn about it as certain medicines might make Zocor less efficient or cause serious side effects.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for your personal use only and might not embrace all uses, instructions, precautions and adverse drug interaction. This information is general and not intended to be completely relied upon. We disclaim any responsibility for the credibility and dependability of the information provided and any effects caused by its use, including those related to any harm to a person or property, in case such effects take place. This information does not provide the reader with any kind of warranty.