Lipex

Uses
Lipex (Simvastatin) is a type of hypolipidemic (lipid reducing) and anticholesteremic medicine more commonly referred to as a statin. Its benefits in the reduction of cholesterol are due to it decreasing the activity of a certain enzyme (called HMG-CoA reductase) which is vital in the process of cholesterol production. By causing a decrease in the amount of cholesterol present in the liver cells, it leads to a lowering of cholesterol levels in the blood.

This can help prevent atherosclerosis. Another benefit of this medicine is that it can also reduce the levels of certain types of fat (such as triglycerides) in the blood. Conditions treated with this medicine include hypercholesterolemia and hyperlipidaemia. In addition to this, it is used to prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular disease in patients with risk factors (such as diabetes). Treatment with this medicine usually involves dieting and weight loss.

Dosage and Administration
Lipex (Simvastatin) tablets contain 80mg of the active ingredient. The dosage will need to be carefully calculated by your doctor based on your cholesterol levels and other reasons. Individual factors which will need to be taken into account include any existing medical conditions (such as diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vessel disease or any other similar conditions). Also, treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia may require a different dosage regimen to that required for hyperlipidaemia or cardiovascular risk reduction. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor.

Side effects
Lipex (Simvastatin) may cause:

• Sore stomach
• Difficulty sleeping
• Memory difficulties
• Digestive disturbances
• Soreness that affects the joints or muscles

Any side effects which bother you should be reported to your doctor. Seek medical treatment immediately if you experience pain during urination, dark or discoloured urine, blistering, fever, a lack of appetite or any other serious side effects not listed here.

Precautions
If this medicine is taken with grapefruit juice, an interaction may occur. It is possible that an increase in serum concentrations of the active ingredient will occur. Therefore, patients will need to avoid this during treatment.

Alcohol may put you at an increased risk of serious health problems while taking this medicine, and it is likely that your doctor will direct you to limit or avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Lipex (Simvastatin) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.