Questions and Answers
What is the trade name of simvastatin?
Zocor
What are the therapeutic classifications of simvastatin?
What is the pharmacologic classification of simvastatin?
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors
What is the primary use of simvastatin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the action of simvastatin?
Signup and view all the answers
The adverse effects of simvastatin include __________.
Signup and view all the answers
What are some uncommon side effects of simvastatin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a contraindication for simvastatin?
Signup and view all the answers
What should be monitored before administering simvastatin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a sign of immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy in relation to simvastatin?
Signup and view all the answers
What patient teaching is important regarding simvastatin?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a precaution for simvastatin concerning CYP3A4 inhibitors?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Simvastatin Overview
- Trade name of simvastatin is Zocor.
- Classified as a lipid-lowering agent and antihyperlipidemic.
Pharmacological Classification
- Belongs to HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.
Uses of Simvastatin
- Effectively lowers LDL cholesterol.
- Prescribed for individuals with high cholesterol, post-myocardial infarction (MI), type 2 diabetes, and those at risk for cardiovascular disorders, including MI, angina, and stroke.
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme responsible for an early step in cholesterol synthesis.
Adverse Effects
- Common adverse effects include headache, rash, hepatotoxicity, myopathy, cataracts, and gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., cramping, constipation, flatulence, dyspepsia).
Side Effects
- Side effects usually uncommon but may involve rash, headache, or gastrointestinal issues.
- Serious side effects, such as hepatotoxicity and myopathy, are relatively rare.
- Risk of acute renal failure and rhabdomyolysis.
Contraindications
- Low doses recommended for patients with severe renal impairment.
Nursing Considerations
- Monitor liver function tests before administration.
- Observe for signs of liver injury, such as fatigue, right upper abdominal discomfort, dark urine, and jaundice.
- If muscle tenderness occurs, monitor creatine kinase levels; discontinue if levels exceed 10 times the normal value.
Additional Nursing Considerations
- Proximal muscle weakness and elevated serum creatine kinase may indicate immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy; muscle biopsy and treatment with immunosuppressive agents may be necessary.
Important Precautions
- Not to be used with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.
- Ensure patients have attempted cholesterol-lowering diet for 3 to 6 months prior to starting treatment.
- Avoid usage of 80 mg doses due to increased risk of muscle injury and rhabdomyolysis.
Patient Education
- Instruct patients to avoid grapefruit juice, which can affect drug metabolism.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz explores the details of simvastatin, including its trade name Zocor, pharmacological classification, uses, mechanism of action, and potential side effects. Test your knowledge on how simvastatin contributes to lowering LDL cholesterol and its role in cardiovascular health.
