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A majority of prescription medications have side effects and Zocor is no different. Available by prescription, Zocor is considered a lipid-lowering medication that is prescribed to help lower cholesterol. Approximately two percent of Zocor users will have some type of side effect, some mild but a few are particularly severe.

RHABDOMYOLYSIS

A serious side effect of Zocor is a disorder of the kidneys called

rhabdomyolysis. While the condition is somewhat rare, the effects can be debilitating. Rhabdomyolysis can occur by a variety of sources including prescription medications. This disorder can cause destruction to the skeletal muscle fibers and leaking of muscle substances into the circulatory system.

MYOPATHY

Myopathy affects the muscle tissues with patients experiencing muscle aches and pains and/or weakness in the muscles commonly in the arms and legs. It is extremely important that anyone who experiences these pains to consult with their doctor as myopathy can lead to other serious complications such as rhabdomyolysis or renal failure.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Before taking any medication, patient should discuss with their doctor about other medications including non-prescription drugs, herbal remedies and supplements that they may be using. Listed drug interactions for Zocor include medications for fungal infections, other cholesterol lowering medications, red yeast rice, those prescribed for HIV infections and even some antibiotics.

These brand name drugs include but are not limited to itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, clarithromycin, erythromycin, telithromycin, amprenavir, indinavir, amiodarone, cyclosporine, danazol, diltiazem, fluconazole, verapamil, voriconazole, ritonavir, and warfarin. Other interactions with Zocor include alcohol and grapefruit juice.

Other serious side effects that have been reported include loss of memory, personality changes, sexual or erectile dysfunction, ophthalmoplegia, cataracts, abnormalities with the functions of the thyroid and neurological dysfunctions including vertigo and alterations in the cranial nerves.

Some of the less severe side effects of Zocor include minor allergic reactions, irritability, low-grade fever, muscle aches and pains, lethargy, change in urine including amount and color, skin yellowing, blistering and even peeling of the skin especially inside the mouth, rashes, constipation, heartburn, gas and stomach upset.

Before you take Zocor or any medication, tell your doctor about any medical history and lifestyle issues that he or she may not be aware of. This includes alcohol consumption, kidney and liver disease, allergies to other medications, if you are pregnant, are trying to become pregnant or are breastfeeding, and any other past or present medical conditions.

Patients who are prescribed this drug will have a higher chance of side effects with prolonged use. This is why it is extremely important for those who use Zocor should make changes to their diet and exercise program so the use will not become a lifelong requirement. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) highly urges patients who experience negative side effects to report the problems at their website or by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.

References:

http ://www.drugs.com/zocor.html

htt p://www.aboutyourcholesterol.c om/8d_Zocor_Side_Effects.asp?s ource=GoogleINFOCHOL&gclid=CKr6-LKSmpYCFRJ4xgodLz18 ng

http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/ge neric/simva_ad.htm

http://www.f da.gov/

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