limiting doses of simvastatin (Zocor, etc) to reduce myopathy

April 2010

See updated FDA safety information concerning new restrictions and dose limitations for Zocor (simvastatin)

You'll see more emphasis on limiting doses of simvastatin (Zocor, etc) to reduce myopathy.

The risk of myopathy with simvastatin 80 mg is much higher than with lower doses...and possibly higher than with other statins.

Discourage using simvastatin 80 mg/day. Explain that going from 40 to 80 mg lowers LDL just 6% more but increases myopathy risk 6 times.

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Table of Contents

Diabetes whether intensive treatment of blood pressure or lipids is beneficial for type 2 diabetes patients
Dermatology choosing appropriate treatment for plaque psoriasis
Pediatrics whether CHILDREN should take fish oil supplements
Respiratory & Allergy more controversy over treating asthma with long-acting beta-agonists (salmeterol, formoterol)
Vaccines Cervarix will compete with Gardasil as the second human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
Geriatrics adjust med regimens to help avoid falls in the frail elderly
Statins limiting doses of simvastatin (Zocor, etc) to reduce myopathy
concerns about the safety of denture adhesives with zinc
Natural Health Products weight loss product called PGX (polyglycoplex)
whether cell phones, smart phones, and other electronic devices can interfere with hospital equipment
Diabetes Meds Ongoing concerns about Avandia (rosiglitazone)