Before we get into the side effects of Zocor, it's important to understand what it is used for. Zocor is a medication that is used to help lower "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides and help increase "good" cholesterol.
If cholesterol levels are out of control, it can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, or even death. Zocor is used to help get cholesterol levels where they should be and to prevent serious heart problems.
If your "bad" cholesterol is too high, you are putting a lot of pressure on your heart and other major body organs. To help treat your condition, your doctor may prescribe Zocor and give you a diet and exercise plan to follow.
Side effects of Zocor can be separated into two categories: serious and less serious. The less serious side effects are also the most common, but not every patient will experience side effects from Zocor. Side effects of Zocor include:
- Headaches.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Cold symptoms; sore throat, stuffy nose, sneezing.
- Constipation, stomach pain, indigestion.
- Nausea.
- Skin rash.
- Sleep problems; insomnia.
There are also the more serious side effects of Zocor that you should know about. If you experience any of these side effects at any time, be sure you consult with your doctor immediately:
- Muscle pain that seems to occur for no reason.
- Pain or burning while urinating or dark urine.
- Swelling.
- Weight gain.
- Inability to urinate or urinating much less frequently than normal.
- Nausea, stomach pain.
If you experience swelling of your face, throat, mouth, or lips, have difficulty breathing, or you develop hives, be sure to stop taking Zocor and speak with your doctor at once. When you are prescribed medication, you will likely need to consult with your doctor regularly and it's important that you talk about any side effects you may be experiencing no matter how insignificant you think they may be.
This is not a complete list of the side effects of Zocor, but simply the side effects that have been reported by others who have taken the medication.