SIMVASTATIN

Simvastin, an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, is a cholesterol loawering agent. It is an orally administered prodrug.

Indications

primary hypercholesterolemia (type IIa and IIb hyperliipoprotenemia); Patient with a coronary artery disease, for reduction of elevated LDL cholesterol levels in patients with combined hypercholesterolemia & hyperriglyceridemia.

Dosage

Initial dosage: 5-10 mg as a single dose in the evening. Max recommended dosage: 40mg/day as a single dose in the evening. Dosage of 20-40 mg/day may be necesary in patient with CHD.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity to simvastain, active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevation of serum transaminases, pregnancy & lactation.

Special Precautions

Patient with unexplained muscle pain, weakness, renal failure, trauma, endocrine & electrolytes disorders, and uncontrolled seizures. Pregnancy: Safety not established. Lactation: Breast feeding is not recommended. Paediatrics: Safety not established.

Side Effects

Gastrointestinal problems such as constipation, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, flatulence nausea, dizziness, fatigue and skin rash.

Drug Interactions

Concurrent use of anticoagulants, coumarin of indandione derivative may increase bleeding or prothrombin time. Concurrent administration of digoxin may cause a slight elevation in serum digoxin concentration. Concurrent use of cholestyramine or colestripol may decrease the bioavailability simvastatin. There is increased risk of rhabodmyolysis and acute renal failure with concurrent use of Cyclosporine, Erythromycin, Gemfibrozil, Immunosuppresants or Niacin.