What is the brand name for Simvastatin?
The brand name for Simvastatin is Zocor.
PTCE Top 200 · #22
Simvastatin
Zocor
Simvastatin is the generic name for the brand-name drug Zocor. It is a statin (hmg-coa reductase inhibitor) used to treat high cholesterol. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Simvastatin ranks #22 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Simvastatin |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Zocor |
| Drug class | Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | high cholesterol |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Simvastatin used for?
Statin used with diet to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides; also used to reduce cardiovascular risk in certain patients.
What drug class is Simvastatin?
Simvastatin is a Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Simvastatin
- arrow_rightMuscle pain (myalgia)
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightUpper respiratory symptoms
Major interactions
- arrow_rightStrong CYP3A4 inhibitors (contraindicated) ↑ simvastatin levels/myopathy risk
- arrow_rightGrapefruit juice and certain CCBs/antiarrhythmics (amiodarone, verapamil, diltiazem) require simvastatin dose limits
- arrow_rightGemfibrozil/cyclosporine ↑ myopathy risk (avoid)
- arrow_rightWarfarin: monitor INR when starting/stopping
Is Simvastatin a controlled substance?
No. Simvastatin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Simvastatin (PTCE mnemonic)
ZOcor lowers ZO-cholesterol — simva-STATIN is a CYP3A4 magnet. Muscle aches + LFTs; NO grapefruit; cap at 20mg with amlodipine.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
-statin = cholesterol. Simvastatin (Zocor) has more interactions than most statins — avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and grapefruit, and know its dose limits.
Simvastatin FAQ
What is Simvastatin used for?
Simvastatin is used to treat high cholesterol. Statin used with diet to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides; also used to reduce cardiovascular risk in certain patients.
What drug class is Simvastatin?
Simvastatin is a Statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Simvastatin a controlled substance?
No. Simvastatin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Simvastatin the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).