Zocor (generic simvastatin) is a lipid-lowering drug that is prescribed to lower patients’ low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. LDL is often referred to as “bad cholesterol” while HDL (high density lipoprotein) is referred to as “good cholesterol.” Zocor is manufactured by Merck & Co and belongs to thestatin family of cholesterol drugs. Zocor works by blocking the production of cholesterol in the body. Doctors have prescribed Zocor to lower patients’ LDL, which can help prevent heart disease and hardening of the arteries. These conditions can lead to heart attack, stroke, and vascular disease.
Baycol is a cholesterol-lowering statin that is very similar to Zocor in how it works and what it does to the cholesterol in your body. Baycol was manufacturered by Bayer A.G. Pharmaceutical and was recalled in August 2001 as a result of allegedly being linked to as many as 31 deaths. As a result of the Baycol recall, all statin drugs’ safety has come into question. While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains that Zocor causes significantly fewer side effects than Baycol, the agency acknowledges that Zocor does pose some risk, especially when used in combination with other drugs.
One example of a potentially dangerous drug combination is Zocor andSerzone, a once-popular antidepressant. Patients taking this drug combination have been known to develop rhabdomylolysis, which is a condition characterized by the rapid breakdown of muscle fibers resulting in the release of muscle fiber contents into the bloodstream. These fibers are harmful to the kidney and often result in kidney damage.
What To Do If You Have Suffered Adverse Effects
If you have been injured by a dangerous drug, the manufacturer may have failed in its duty to design, make, inspect and label the product appropriately. If you have taken Zocor and have experienced adverse effects, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Due to statutes of limitation, however, you should promptly consult with an experienced product defect or medial malpractice attorney as soon as possible.
If you or someone you love was prescribed Zocor and subsequently developed rhabdomyolysis, renal failure, kidney disease, heart problems, or other conditions associated with Zocor use, it is important that you seek both medical and legal help as soon as you can.
Your first step in pursuing the compensation you and your family deserve is to consult with a pharmaceutical injury attorney in your area (see map below) who has experience dealing with medical cases and with drug company litigation. He or she will evaluate your case and discuss your options with you.
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