Zocor and Liver Problems

Among the liver problems that can occur in some people taking Zocor are cirrhosis, jaundice, and an increase in liver enzymes. Because of how rarely these problems occur in people taking Zocor, it is difficult to say whether they are caused by the medication or something else. A few symptoms that can sometimes signify liver problems in people taking Zocor include stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, and passing brown or dark-colored urine. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns related to Zocor and liver problems.

 

Zocor and Liver Problems: An Overview

As with any medication, there possible side effects with
 Zocor® (simvastatin), including problems with the liver. For people taking Zocor, liver problems can include:
 
  • An increase in liver enzymes
     
  • Hepatitis, which is an inflammation of the liver that can cause tiredness or a general feeling of illness
     
  • Jaundice, or a yellowing of the skin or eyes that can occur from the liver being damaged
     
  • A fatty change in the liver
     
  • Cirrhosis
     
  • Hepatoma, which is a type of liver cancer.
     
Increases in liver enzymes occur in about 1 percent of people taking Zocor. The other liver problems mentioned above occur in less than 1 percent of people. It is difficult to tell whether these side effects are caused by the medication itself or something else.
 
(Zocor and Liver Problems Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;