Simvastatin

What is Simvastatin?

Simvastatin is a lipid-lowering medication that belongs to the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors group of medicines, also known as statins. It is a commonly prescribed medication to prevent cardiovascular disease in those with high cholesterol.

It is taken by mouth and, when combined with exercise, weight loss, and a healthy diet, it can work to lower elevated lipid levels.

You need a prescription to buy Simvastatin. 

What are Simvastatin tablets used to treat?

Simvastatin is a lipid-lowering medication that belongs to the statins class of drugs. It is a commonly prescribed medication to lower the non-HDL cholesterol levels in the body, particularly the Lower Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. Like other statins, Simvastatin also helps to increase good cholesterol levels (HDL). 

Simvastatin reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, angina, heart attacks, and strokes, which are all serious conditions associated with high cholesterol. 

Simvastatin and other statin drugs are the first-line treatment option for those with high cholesterol. However, they should always be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle changes that include exercising.

Why is Simvastatin recommended to treat high cholesterol?

Simvastatin has been used to treat high cholesterol since 1992, it is one of the most prescribed medicines in the world and is currently featured on the World Health Organisation's list of Essential Medicines.

Clinical studies show Simvastatin to be an effective medication for lowering cholesterol and also producing a minimal risk of side effects. 

How does Simvastatin treat high cholesterol?

Simvastatin works by lowering the bad cholesterol levels in our body such as Lower Density Lipoprotein (LDL) as well as other non-HDL cholesterol levels. Simvastatin also helps to increase the levels of good cholesterol, which help to prevent several LDL related diseases as well as remove LDL from the body.

Simvastatin increases the number of LDL receptors within the body; the LDL receptors are vital to the body when it comes to managing cholesterol body. 

The LDL receptors help to absorb the bad cholesterol within the blood, where it is transferred to the liver and removed from the body.

Statins mainly work in the liver by slowing down the production of LDL cholesterol.

Who can take Simvastatin?

Simvastatin is an effective medication for lowering cholesterol levels, but it may not be suitable for everyone to use.

You should tell your doctor before taking Simvastatin tablets if:

• You have liver or kidney problems
• You have had an allergic to this or any other medicine in the past
• You have or have had a muscle disorder like fibromyalgia
• You have severe lung disease
• You drink large quantities of alcohol on a regular basis
• You have an underactive thyroid

Simvastatin tablets can also interact with other medications. If you are taking any other medicine for high cholesterol or any other illness, you should make sure your doctor is aware.

Can you buy Simvastatin over the counter in the UK?

Simvastatin is a prescription-only medicine and cannot be bought over the counter. You must have this medicine prescribed in order to buy it.

Can you buy Simvastatin online in the UK?

You can buy Simvastatin online in the UK from most online pharmacies including Medicine Direct. Before you buy Simvastatin, you will need to complete an online health questionnaire, this is to ensure that you are receiving the best possible treatment option for your condition. 

Simvastatin alternatives

There are 5 types of statins that are used to treat high cholesterol in the UK. 

• Atorvastatin
• Fluvastatin
• Pravastatin
• Rosuvastatin
• Simvastatin

All statins will have a very similar mechanism of action, but indications and doses can vary depending on which statin you are prescribed.

You should always take the statin that you have been prescribed by your doctor, do not switch between statins.