Simvastatin is lipid lowering drug with a chemical formal of C25h38O5 and has a molecular weight of 418.57and a melting point of 135-138 °C . Their high efficacy has led to increased usage in reduction of cholesterol on the blood and as treatment measure of choice.
The Chemical Structure and Functional Groups of Simvastatin
The Mode of Action of the Drug
Simvastatin belongs to a class of drugs referred us statins which are 3-hydroxy-3-3methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors. These drugs functions to reduce cholesterol production in the body. Also, they minimize the amount of triglycerides and cholesterol moving in the body (Gelissen and McLachlan, 2014). Simvastatin functions by inhibiting …show more content…
The serious side effects of simvastatin are myopathy (muscle disease) and rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) (Golomb et al., 2012). Rhabdomyolysis may result to kidney failure. The side effects are manifested through dark-colored urine, persistent muscle pain, unexplained muscle weakness, fever and diarrhea. Individuals with alcohol abuse problem and liver diseases should not use simvastatin as it would escalate liver injuries (Egan and Colman, 2011). Other serious side effects include liver toxicity, muscle spasms, jaundice, anemia and swelling severely on ankles, feet and …show more content…
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