The endocrinologist explains how this high cholesterol drug works
Simvastatin is a drug generally indicated for the reduction of bad (LDL) cholesterol. According to information from the Ministry of Health, high concentrations of LDL cholesterol can reduce blood flow, affecting organs such as the heart, intestines, brain, arms and legs, as well as impairing arterial function.
According to endocrinologist Dr. Gabriela Iervolino, although the drug prevents several health problems, it must be ingested with caution, since the amount of doses indicated depends on the condition of each patient. “Every diabetic over the age of 40 must take a statin, that is, a simvastatin, which belongs to the class of statins, as well as those who have had a heart attack, a stroke (Cerebral Vascular Accident) and who have a familial high cholesterol. These are some examples, there are others, but it is necessary to present the case to a doctor to be something individual “, explains the doctor.
How to take simvastatin?
This drug must be prescribed by a doctor and is usually taken in the evening, preferably after the last meal, as it helps in concentration of drugs in the body to reduce the production of cholesterol in the blood, as explained by the endocrinologist. “[A sinvastatina] It is a medicine that will only take effect after fasting, which is why you have to take it in the evening, after dinner or just before bed, “says the professional.
According to Dr. Gabriela Iervolino, if ingested on an empty stomach, the drug is able to make the cell reduce the production of cholesterol. In this way, even if the cell needs cholesterol, it takes it from the blood and decreases the amount of LDL. “So if you take the medicine during the day, it won’t work, why don’t you fast during the day.”
Does Simvastatin Help You Lose Weight?
Although many believe simvastatin can help weight loss, the endocrinologist explains that the drug does not have this effect, it only reduces bad cholesterol, reduces fat in the blood and reduces inflammation in the body. “Simvastatin doesn’t help you lose weight and it doesn’t have that effect,” says the expert.
Side effects from simvastatin
According to the information in the package leaflet of the drug, among the negative side effects presented by the drug are:
- Constipation;
- Headache;
- Weakness;
- liver problems;
- Hypersensitivity.
In addition to these effects, the endocrinologist highlights the muscular pain. “The most common side effect of simvastatin is muscle pain. This may be associated with the side effect of a change in blood tests, creatine phosphokinase (CPK) or not. Have the symptom and test changed. Another one. very common effect is the change in liver test, “says Dr. Gabriela Iervolino.
Interaction with other drugs
When not guided by a doctor, the combination of medicines it can alter its effects and cause harm to health, and simvastatin is no different. Therefore, Dr. Gabriela Iervolino lists which drugs combined with simvastatin can increase or decrease its time of action:
Remedies that reduce results:
- isoniazid;
- carbamazepine;
- phenobarbital;
- Rifampicin.
Drugs that can increase their effects:
- Fluconazole (antifungal);
- Clarithromycin and erythromycin (antibiotic);
- Diltiazem (high blood pressure);
- fuchsin (anxiety)
- Remedy for HIV.
Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any type of medication.
Contraindications
Typically, simvastatin is not recommended for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. It is also not recommended for children under the age of 10 and people allergic to any component present in its composition. Other patients who need to be careful with this drug are those who have already had rhabdomyolysis, a disease characterized by inflammation of the muscles, as the doctor explains.
Source: Terra
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