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Making sure you know the facts of simvastatin side effects is essential if you are thinking of taking this drug. Simvastatin is a cholesterol reducing drug of the statin family which is used to deal with excessive cholesterol and, in children, to combat a condition known as heterozygous hypercholesterolemia in which the body does not remove cholesterol properly. It functions by slowing the production of cholesterol in the body. It can be used to reduce the potential risks of heart attacks, strokes, as well as to treat blood flow issues related to heart and blood vessel problems. It is prescribed in doses of 5mg to 80mg. The side effects of simvastatin are many, each which consists of own set of symptoms.

Simvastatin can cause an increased risk of muscle damage caused by a myopathy (muscle disease) that causes a non-functioning of the muscle fibers. This occurs when a patient takes higher doses of the medication. The symptoms of this condition consist of muscle cramps, stiffness, spasms, tenderness, and general weakness.

Another, more serious, side effect is the possibility of developing rhabdomyolysis, in which muscle proteins are released directly into the blood stream. This can lead to damaged kidneys and, if not treated, fatal kidney failure. This problem mostly arises due to mixing the drug with other medications which may produce conflicts or increased absorption from the simvastatin into the blood stream. The symptoms include dark-colored urine, muscles pains, weakness, and stiffness.

An onset of cholestatic hepatitis can also occur, which is an obstruction of bile secretion which in turn causes bile to re-enter the bloodstream. Symptoms include itching of the skin and jaundice. This condition can eventually lead to hepatic necrosis.

Hepatic cirrhosis (cirrhosis of the liver) is yet another problem that may arise. This will cause a degeneration from the liver cells which are then replaced by scarring. Eventually, this will lead to serious liver damage and may be life threatening. Symptoms include fatigue, lack of appetite, jaundice, itching, along with a tendency to bruise easily.

Common unwanted effects of simvastatin reported that are not necessarily symptoms of more serious issues include constipation, stomach pain, nausea, headaches, diarrhea, pain, and some memory loss. Even when experiencing some of these more prevalent conditions, it is always better to consult a doctor.

Regardless of the wide range of simvastatin side effects, only rarely does serious damage occur. The best defense is to be aware of the various precautions associated with the taking of this drug. Do not mix it with other medications without consulting a doctor beforehand. Make certain your doctor knows what medications you are currently on so he or she can determine whether simvastatin is appropriate and safe to use. Some particularly troubled areas include antifungal medications, other cholesterol lowering medications, and anticoagulants. Even if mixing a relatively harmless medication with simvastatin, always make sure your doctor monitors the interactions.

It is best to get regular liver check-ups when utilizing this drug. With the variety of liver-problems that could happen, and also the severity of them, you should monitor the liver for just about any changes. simvastatin side effects

More particular problems have been associated with Asians taking the drug, in addition to older people (above 65), people with thyroid disorders or diabetes, and those who drink alcohol regularly. Pregnant mothers should not use this drug, since it will cause harm to the fetus. Breast-feeding mothers should avoid it as well.

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, you should contact a doctor immediately. If an overdose occurs, the poison control center ought to be called, or if the patient is unconscious, a hospital.