simvastatin

Simvastatin is a lipid-lowering agent belonging to the class of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, commonly known as statins. It is used in combination with diet, weight loss, and exercise to reduce elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol), total cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), and triglycerides in the blood. Simultaneously, it increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ("good" cholesterol). The drug works by competitively inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase—the enzyme responsible for catalyzing the rate-limiting step in hepatic cholesterol biosynthesis—thereby reducing endogenous production of cholesterol. This leads to upregulation of hepatic LDL receptors and increased clearance of LDL from circulation. Simvastatin is indicated for lowering cardiovascular risk by preventing heart attacks, strokes, angina, and other complications associated with atherosclerosis in adults and children aged 10 years or older with familial heterozygous hypercholesterolemia.

Brand names

Zocor

Other names

simvastatin