Simcor (Niacin/Simvastatin)

What is Simcor?

Simcor is an oral lipid modifying agent. It is a combination of Niacin and simvastatin. While Niacin (nicotinic acid) is a B vitamin (Vitamin B3) that occurs naturally in plants and animals, Simvastatin belongs to a class of drugs known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins).

What is Simcor used for?

Simcor is used to reduce the amount of LDL (bad cholesterol) and fats/ triglycerides in the blood. The medicine helps increase good cholesterol i.e. HDL in the blood. It thus reduces the risk levels associated with heart attacks or strokes.

How does Simcor work?

Simcor works by decreasing the fats in the body and reducing the amount of cholesterol made by the liver.

How to use Simcor

Use Simcor in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Read the instruction leaflet very carefully before taking the drug. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

The medicine is usually taken once daily, at daytime with a low fat snack. Do not crush or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole. If you are taking aspirin, tell your doctor in advance. The doctor may advise you to take aspirin 30 minutes before Simcor to avoid side effects. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day. It is recommended that you take the medicine at evenly spaced intervals.

Simcor warnings and precautions

Do not take Simcor if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Before using Simcor tell your doctor if you are suffering from kidney disease, low blood pressure, history of liver disease, gout, bleeding problems, low levels of phosphate in the blood, thyroid disorder, gallbladder disease, history of stomach ulcers, alcohol use, or glaucoma.

Limit the use of alcohol as it can increase your risk of liver damage. Avoid taking grapefruit juice with the drug. Check your blood sugar levels as directed by the doctor.

Pregnant and lactating women should not take this medication, unless prescribed by a registered medical practitioner. Simcor can cause birth defects if taken by a pregnant female. Use effective birth control measures while on the prescription period of this medication.

What do I do if I have missed a Simcor dose?

If you have missed a Simcor dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Simcor overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Simcor, consult your doctor immediately.

Simcor interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Simcor when used in tandem with it. These include blood thinners like warfarin, daptomycin, digoxin, amiodarone, danazol (Danocrine), nefazodone, gemfibrozil, fenofibric acid and antibiotics such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin, or telithromycin (Ketek). Also antifungal medications such as fluconazole, itraconazole, or ketoconazole; heart or blood pressure medication such as diltiazem or verapamil should be restricted along with the use of Simcor.

The doctor should be informed of any kind of medication that the patient is already taking in order to avert any interference with the treatment.

Simcor side effects

Side effects from Simcor include muscle pain, tenderness and weakness, dark colored urine, swelling, weight gain, nausea, jaundice, loss of appetite, itching, cough and dyspepsia.  If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Mild nausea, mild diarrhea, headache, pain, flushing, and mild dizziness are some less serious side effects of Simcor.