DRUG NAME Generic Name: Simvastatin Brand Name: Zocor Dosage: Route:

CLASSIFICATION Antihyperlipidemi c, HMG CoA reduc tase inhibitor

ACTION Inhibits HMG coenzyme A, the enzyme that catalyzes the first step in the cholesterol synthesis pathway, resulting in a decrease in serum cholesterol, serum LDLs, and either an increase or no change in serum HDLs.

INDICATION

CONTRAINDICATION -Contraindicated with allergy to simvastatin, fungal byproducts, pregnancy, lactation. - Use cautiously with impaired hepatic and renal function, cataracts.

- Adjunct to diet
in the treatment of elevated total cholestrol a nd LDL cholesterol with primary hypercholesterol emia (types IIa andIIb) in those unresponsive to dietary restriction of saturated fat and cholesterol and other nonpharma cologic measures - To reduce the risk of stroke, TIA, MI in patients with coronary heart disease and hypercholesterol emia - Treatment of patients with

SIDE EFFECTS/ ADVERSE EFFECTS Advere effect Headache, asthenia, sleep disturbances, Flatule nce, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramps, constipation, nausea, dyspepsia, heartburn, liver failure, Sinusitis, pharyngitis, Rhabdo myolysis, acute renal failure, arthralgia,my algia

NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES

- Ensure that patient has

tried a cholesterollowering diet regimen for 36 mo before beginning therapy. - Give in the evening; highest rates of cholesterol synthesis are between midnight and 5 AM. - Arrange for regular follow-up during longterm therapy. Consider reducing dose if cholesterol falls below target.

isolated hypertrig lyceridemia - Treatment of type III hyperlipoprote inemia