Simcor (Simvastatin Niacin Extended Release) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Simcor Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking niacin and simvastatin (Simcor)?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to simvastatin or niacin, or if you have:

liver disease;
a stomach ulcer;
active bleeding; or
if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Before taking niacin and simvastatin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

diabetes;
underactive thyroid;
gout;
kidney disease; or
if you are also taking amiodarone (Cordarone, Pacerone) or verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan).

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take niacin and simvastatin.

In rare cases, simvastatin can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue. This condition can lead to kidney failure. Call your doctor at once if you have unexplained muscle pain or tenderness, muscle weakness, fever or flu symptoms, and dark colored urine.

FDA pregnancy category X. This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use niacin and simvastatin if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use effective birth control while you are using this medication.

It is not known whether niacin and simvastatin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take niacin and simvastatin (Simcor)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Niacin and simvastatin is usually taken at bedtime with a low-fat snack. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Do not crush, chew, or break a niacin and simvastatin tablet. Swallow the pill whole. The niacin ingredient in this pill is an extended-release form. Breaking or crushing the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

Niacin can cause certain side effects, such as flushing (warmth, itching, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin). These effects can be made worse if you drink alcohol or hot beverages shortly after you take niacin and simvastatin. These effects should disappear over time as you keep taking the medication.

Niacin and simvastatin can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests. You may need to stop taking this medication for a short time if you have surgery or a major illness. Tell any doctor or surgeon who treats you that you are taking niacin and simvastatin.

If you stop taking niacin and simvastatin for longer than 7 days in a row, talk with your doctor before restarting the medication. You may need to start with a lower dose.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your liver function will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Niacin and simvastatin is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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