Actalipid (other name Zocor)

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

frequently drink alcoholic beverages

kidney disease

liver disease

muscle aches or weakness

other medical condition

an unusual or allergic reaction to simvastatin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take this medicine with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is less than four hours to your next dose, take only that dose and skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

medicines for fungal infections like itraconazole, ketoconazole

nefazodone

other medicines for high cholesterol

red yeast rice

some antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin, telithromycin

some medicines for HIV infection like amprenavir, indinavir, ritonavir

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

alcohol

amiodarone

cyclosporine

danazol

diltiazem

grapefruit juice

fluconazole

verapamil

voriconazole

warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check-ups. You may need regular tests to make sure your liver is working properly.
Tell you doctor or health care professional right away if you get any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever and tiredness.
This drug is only part of a total heart-health program. Your doctor or a dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet to help. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.
Do not use this drug if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Serious side effects to an unborn child or to an infant are possible. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
If you are going to have surgery tell your health care professional that you are taking this drug.
Some drugs may increase the risk of side effects from simvastatin. If you are given certain antibiotics or antifungals, your doctor or health care professional may stop simvastatin for a short time. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

dark urine

fever

joint pain

muscle cramps, pain

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

unusually weak or tired

yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

constipation

heartburn

stomach gas, pain, upset

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.