How Does Simvastatin Work?
Simvastatin is part of a class of drugs called
statins. The medication works by blocking a particular enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) that controls the rate of
cholesterol production in the body. This causes the liver to make less cholesterol. Simvastatin also:
In previous research studies, people taking simvastatin 20 mg were able to, on average:
- Decrease LDL cholesterol by 38 percent, total cholesterol by 28 percent, and triglycerides by 19 percent
- Increase HDL by 8 percent.
The effects were even greater with simvastatin 40 mg and simvastatin 80 mg.
When and How to Take Simvastatin
- The medication comes in a tablet form that is taken once a day. You should take your dose with a glass of water. You may take it with or without food.
- Simvastatin should be taken in the evening.
- For simvastatin to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
You should not drink grapefruit juice while taking simvastatin, because it can increase the levels of the medication in the blood -- which increases the risk of developing serious muscle problems. If you are being treated with simvastatin and want to continue drinking grapefruit juice, talk with your healthcare provider about other cholesterol-lowering medications you can take.
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