The medication works by blocking a particular enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body, causing the liver to make less cholesterol. This action also helps to
increase HDL cholesterol ("
good cholesterol") and decrease LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and
triglycerides.
Simvastatin comes in tablet form and is typically taken once a day, in the evening. You should not drink grapefruit juice while taking it, as this can increase the levels of the medication in your blood, which increases the risk of developing serious muscle problems.
(Click Simvastatin to learn more about this cholesterol medicine, including who makes it, what forms and strengths are available, and what side effects may occur with treatment.)
