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Zocor (simvastatin)
The United States Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about the cholesterol-lowering drug simvastatin[1]. The FDA looked at the results of a seven-year study and found that at the highest dosage available-80 mgs-simvastatin can cause muscle damage and kidney damage.
Simvastatin is marketed under several brand names including:
- Zocor
- Simvastatin (generic)
- Vytorin (a combination drug which includes simvastatin)
- Simcor (a combination drug which includes simvastatin)
Rhabdomyolysis and kidney failure
The FDA has found that high doses of Zocor can cause a rare but severe type of muscle disease called rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis is the breakdown of muscle tissue, which dumps muscle protein into the patient's urine. The proteins can buildup and clog the kidneys.
The symptoms for rhabdomyolysis quite vague, which can make it hard to diagnose. Those symptoms can include:
- Dark (red or brown) urine
- Reduced urine
- Swollen or painful areas of the body
- Fatigue or malaise
- Nausea
- Dehydration
- Confusion
- Fever
Left untreated, rhabdomyolysis can lead to kidney failure, coma or death. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and are taking simvastatin, contact your doctor right away.
If you or your loved one has been injured by Zocor or another simvastatin drug, the manufacturer may have failed in its duty to design, make, inspect and label the product appropriately.
At Brown & Crouppen our experienced team of defective drug lawyers provide tough, aggressive representation for victims and their families. Brown & Crouppen can help you make informed decisions about your legal rights, so please call Brown & Crouppen at Toll Free: 1-888-891-2022 for your free legal consultation or save time with our online Contact Form.
[1] http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm258338.htm
