section name header

Pronunciation

SIM-va-sta-tin

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: lipid-lowering agents

Pharmacologic Classification: hmg coa reductase inhibitors (statin)

Indications

REMS

Action

Therapeutic Effects:

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: 85% absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution: Unknown.

Protein Binding: 95%.

Metabolism/Excretion: Primarily metabolized by the liver via the CYP3A4 isoenzyme; excreted in bile and feces; 13% excreted unchanged by the kidneys.

Half-life: Unknown.

Time/Action Profile

(cholesterol-lowering effect)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION†
POdays2–4 wkunknown

†After discontinuation.

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Derm: rash, pruritus.

Endo: hyperglycemia.

GI: abdominal cramps, constipation, diarrhea, flatus, heartburn, altered taste, drug-induced hepatitis, dyspepsia, liver enzymes, nausea, pancreatitis.

GU: erectile dysfunction.

MS: arthralgia, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, myopathy ( risk with 80 mg dose), RHABDOMYOLYSIS.

Neuro: amnesia, confusion, dizziness, headache, insomnia, memory loss, weakness.
Misc: (INCLUDING ANAPHYLAXIS AND ANGIOEDEMA)HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS .

Interactions

Drug-Drug:

Drug-Food:

Route/Dosage

The 80 mg dose should be restricted to patients who have been taking this dose for ge.gif12 mo without evidence of muscle toxicity.

Renal Impairment

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

FloLipid, Zocor

Pill Image

simvastatin_195_9191.jpg