Simvastatin is used as the active ingredient in medicines to treat high cholesterol. This active component inhibits hepatic hydroxymethyl-glutaryl coenzyme reductase, the enzyme which catalyzes the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate. It is the key step in cholesterol synthesis. This component lowers plasma cholesterol and lipoprotein levels and modulates immune responses by suppressing MHC II i.e. major histocompatibility complex II on interferon gamma-stimulated, antigen-presenting cells like human vascular endothelial cells.

Class of Drugs – HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors

Molecular Formula – C₂₅H₃₈O₅

Molecular Weight – 418.6 g/mol

Working: This active component belongs to a group of drugs known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. It is also called statin drug. Simvastatin works to reduce the cholesterol production in the body. It also reduces the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides moving through the body. High cholesterol and triglycerides are associated with increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.

Uses: This HMG CoA reductase inhibitor drug is intended to treat high cholesterol level in the body. It lowers blood levels of bad cholesterol i.e. low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, and increases levels of good cholesterol i.e. high-density lipoprotein, or HDL. It also lowers triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood.

Simvastatin lowers the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other complications related to the heart in people with diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors.

Popular Brands and Dosages: This ingredient is used in a popular brand medicine as mentioned below:

• Zocor: 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg

There are some lifestyle changes, such as changes to diet and exercise needed while treating with this medicine. It is used in adults and children above 10 years old.