Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the generic name of Simvastatin?
What is the generic name of Simvastatin?
Simvastatin
What classification does Simvastatin fall under?
What classification does Simvastatin fall under?
Antihyperlipidemic, statin
What is the FDA category for Simvastatin?
What is the FDA category for Simvastatin?
X
What is the therapeutic use of Simvastatin?
What is the therapeutic use of Simvastatin?
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What are the pharmacologic properties of Simvastatin?
What are the pharmacologic properties of Simvastatin?
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What is the mechanism of action of Statins like Simvastatin?
What is the mechanism of action of Statins like Simvastatin?
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The correct dose for adults is ___ mg PO up to ___ mg daily.
The correct dose for adults is ___ mg PO up to ___ mg daily.
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What are some common side effects of Simvastatin?
What are some common side effects of Simvastatin?
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What medications should not be taken with Simvastatin?
What medications should not be taken with Simvastatin?
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What nursing considerations are important for patients on Simvastatin?
What nursing considerations are important for patients on Simvastatin?
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What patient teaching is crucial for those taking Simvastatin?
What patient teaching is crucial for those taking Simvastatin?
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What labs/interventions should be done for patients on Simvastatin?
What labs/interventions should be done for patients on Simvastatin?
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Study Notes
Simvastatin Overview
- Generic name: Simvastatin; trade name: Zocor
- Classified as an antihyperlipidemic and falls under the statin category
FDA Category
- Classified as Category X, indicating contraindications in pregnancy
Therapeutic Uses
- Primarily lowers LDL cholesterol levels
- Used for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular (CV) events including myocardial infarction (MI), angina, and stroke
- Indicated for post-MI therapy and may be beneficial in diabetic patients
Pharmacology
- Administered orally with absorption ranging from 30% to 90%
- Significant first-pass metabolism in the liver, where statins primarily exert their effects
- Excretion occurs mostly through urine post hepatic metabolism
Mechanism of Action
- Increases the number of LDL receptors on hepatocytes (liver cells) to enhance LDL removal from the blood
- Inhibition of cholesterol synthesis stimulates further LDL receptor synthesis by hepatocytes
Correct Dosage
- Typical dosage for adults is between 10 to 20 mg orally, with a maximum of 40 mg daily, preferably taken in the evening
Side Effects
- Common side effects are rare and can include rash, headache, and gastrointestinal disturbances
- Serious side effects include hepatotoxicity, myopathy, acute renal failure, and rhabdomyolysis, but these are relatively uncommon
Drug Interactions
- Contraindicated with various medications including amiodarone, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, digoxin, diltiazem, erythromycin, fibrates, and certain others that are hepatotoxic
- Grapefruit juice can also interact adversely with Simvastatin
Nursing Considerations
- Avoid use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
- Monitor liver function tests (LFTs) regularly
- Encourage patients to attempt cholesterol-lowering dietary changes for 3 to 6 months prior to commencing treatment
- Caution against 80 mg doses due to increased risk of muscle injury; if stable on this dose, ensure close monitoring
Patient Education
- Not safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Advise against consumption of grapefruit juice and emphasize adherence to diet
- Medication should be taken in the evening
- Importance of regular blood tests to monitor health
- Patients should report any changes in urine or stool color as well as muscle pain or soreness
Laboratory Interventions
- Regular cholesterol level checks are necessary
- Reinforce the need for maintaining a proper diet while on medication
- Administration of medication should occur in the evening for optimal efficacy
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Description
Explore key concepts related to Simvastatin, including its classification, therapeutic uses, and FDA category. This quiz will help reinforce your understanding of this important antihyperlipidemic medication.
