How to Use Zocor to Treat Cholesterol

Zocor is the brand name for Simvastatin, a medication that doctors use to treat high cholesterol. Zocor limits the amount of cholesterol that the liver can produce. The medicine also reduces the amount of LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, that exists in the bloodstream. People who take Zocor should also eat a healthy low-fat diet and get regular exercise.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cholesterol testing
• Exercise plan
• Low-fat foods
• Zocor
• Doctor

Use Zocor to Treat Cholesterol

1. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your cholesterol levels. He will send you for a test or review recent test findings with you to determine how to treat your high cholesterol. Once you are prescribed Zocor, you may be sent for additional blood tests to monitor your progress.

2. List any other medications you may be taking to treat other health issues. You cannot use Zocor when you take certain drugs such as Cyclosporin, Erthromycin, Coumadin and Tagamet. Your doctor may prescribe a different statin drug if you are taking of one these medications.

3. Eat low-fat meals and snacks that are low in cholesterol and high in fiber. Indulge in fattier foods on rare occasions rather than on a regular basis.

4. Include exercise in your daily activities. Take a brisk walk or pick up an aerobics class. Exercising at least 3 times a week may help you lose weight, which can lower your cholesterol levels.

5. Take Zocor as prescribed by your doctor, making sure you do not take multiple doses too close to each other. Zocor can be taken on either an empty or full stomach.

6. Store your medication at room temperature in a closed container. Be sure you put the bottle out of the reach of children.

7. Tell your doctor if you feel muscle weakness or tenderness while using Zocor. This type of side effect is rare, but can be very serious. Severe muscle pain and inflammation stemming from using Zocor could lead to kidney failure.

8. Inquire about ways to treat minor side effects if needed. These can include diarrhea, constipation, headaches and fatigue.

Tips & Warnings

• Zocor is meant for adult use only. If your child needs to use a cholesterol-lowering medication, ask your doctor about other drug options. There are other statin drugs available that are approved for children over the age of 8.
• Do not take Zocor if you are pregnant or nursing, as it can harm both unborn babies and nursing infants.

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