Simlup

Uses
Simlup (Simvastatin) treats dyslipidaemia and is also used to help prevent patients from developing cardiovascular disease. It works by lowering the cholesterol levels. The active ingredient in this medicine is a lipid-altering agent belonging to a class of drugs known as statins. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase activity, which is a type of enzyme that is present in the liver and plays a central role in the synthesis of cholesterol.

This limits the production of cholesterol, leading to a reduction in the amount of cholesterol in the blood. It also helps to lower VLDL (very-low density lipoprotein) and triglyceride, both of which are types of lipoproteins which can clog the arteries, putting the patient at risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.

Indications for this medicine include hypercholesterolaemia, reduction of angina or other cardiovascular events and hyperlipidaemia. Patients should note that medical treatment is only intended as an adjunct to dietary control, and is often recommended in cases where special dietary measures (such as limiting the intake of fat) have not proven sufficiently effective.

Dosage and Administration
Simlup (Simvastatin) is provided in tablet form, and the medicine content of each one is 10mg. The usual adult dosage that doctors prescribe to patients treating hyperlipidaemia or reducing the risk of cardiovascular events ranges from 10mg to 20mg per day. It is usually administered in the evening time, as your body normally produces cholesterol at night.

Maintenance treatment may require a reduction or increase in the dosage, depending on the response. Patients are normally told to take 5mg to 40mg per day for maintenance treatment. However, for patients who are considered to be at a higher than normal risk of cardiovascular events (because of other conditions like diabetes), there is a possibility that they will be told to begin treatment with 40mg per day.

Side effects
Side effects reported by patients taking Simlup (Simvastatin) include some of the following:

• Vertigo
• Hair thinning
• Discoloured skin
• Increased belching
• Difficulty achieving an erection or low libido

You must report any side effects that occur to your doctor. Visit the hospital immediately if you experience soreness in the bladder, dark or otherwise discoloured urine, muscular spasms, blurry vision, loss of consciousness or any side effects that have not been listed here.

Precautions
Grapefruit or any products which contain traces of grapefruit are not to be consumed during treatment with this drug. This is because grapefruit or its juice could cause a serious drug reaction.

There have been rare occurrences of kidney disorders or muscle problems which are severe in nature. Therefore you will need to seek immediate medical attention if any signs of this are noticed.

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 Simlup (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.