by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: October 09, 2008   Last Updated: January 04, 2009

Why would a physician suggest that Zocor might be the right medication for a patient? Zocor is prescribed for patients with high cholesterol. Under normal circumstances the physician would prescribe the drug when diet and exercise did not make a big enough difference in the cholesterol level.

The medication is effective. It reduces the risk of death by reducing coronary death. It reduces the risk of heart attacks. It reduces the need for cardiac procedures such as grafting, artery bypass and coronary angioplasty. It reduces the risk of stroke. For some, this medication is truly a life saver.

It is important to keep in mind as you read about any medication that only you and your doctor can weigh the risks versus the benefits of any prescription drug. Make no medical decisions bases solely on what you read here. The majority of side effects that do occur are usually mild and very short term. In clinical studies of Zocor less that 1.5 percent of patients dropped out of the study based on side effects.

~Senses and Eyes

There can be altered taste sensation or lack of taste, accelerated progression of cataracts, the eye muscles may weaken and blurred vision can all be side effects.

~Digestive System

The digestive system can become upset and irregular on Zocor. You may experience mild stomach pain, bloating, heartburn, loss of appetite, jaundice, inflammation of the pancreas, hepatitis, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and fatty changes in the liver. In rare cases there can be severe liver damage and failure, cirrhosis and liver cancer.

~Muscle and Skeletal System

There can be muscle cramps, pain and weakness. There can be joint pain as well. In rare cases the breakdown of muscles can lead to kidney failure. Any unexplained muscle pain, and tenderness should be reported to your physician. You want to report if urine turns a darker color as well.

~Skin

Some of the side effects reported are hair loss, rash, itching, dryness, and discoloration.

~Nervous System

Head aches, dizziness, insomnia, tingling, memory loss and damage to nerve endings causing weakness have all been reported. Anxiety and depression have been mentioned, but there has been no direct correlation established.

~Allergic Reaction

One of the most life threatening situations with any medication can be an allergic reaction. The symptoms can come on fast and in a serious combination. Severe generalized signs of an allergic reaction may include wheezing, digestive problems, shortness of breath, low blood pressure and perhaps the body going into shock.

People who are pregnant, have a muscle disorder, kidney disease or have and underactive thyroid should not take Zocor.

There are many medications that don't work well with Zocor. Make sure your physician is aware of all prescribed medications, over the counter medications, herbs and alternative medications.

All that being said, the drug is very effective and has helped thousands. My physician reminds all his patients that we learn about the flotation devices on every flight and none of us have had to use them. There is something in that wisdom as well.

Reference:

www.drugs.com

www.druginfonet.com

www.rxlist.com

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