Zocor In

NURS 1566 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheets (You will need to make additional copies of these forms) Generic Name

Trade Name Zocor

Simvastatin

Peak unknown

Classification HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor

Onset unknown

Dose 40 mg

Duration unknown

Route PO

Time/frequency QHS

Normal dosage range 5-80 mg q day

Why is your patient getting this medication High cholesterol

For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions N/A

Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered)

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions

Inhibit an enzyme, HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for catalyzing an early step in the synthesis of cholesterol. Indicated as adjunct therapy in the management of primary hypercholesterolemia and mixed dyslipedemias.

Contraindicated in pt’s with hypersensitivity, sepsis, acute hypptention, major surgery, trauma, severe metabolic disturbances, endocrine or electrolyte disorders, uncontrolled seizures, active liver disease. Use cautiously in pt’s with liver disease or significant alcohol abuse

Common side effects Abdominal cramps, constipation. Diarrhea, flatus, heartburn, and rashes

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) St. Johns wart may decrease effectiveness, grapefruit juice can increase blood levels

Lab value alterations caused by medicine Liver fnxion test, if AST levels increase 3x above normal, therapy should be discontinued. May also cause increased alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin levels. May cause thyroid function test abnormalities.

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Take medication as directed, do not consume copious amounts of grapefruit juice, medication should be used in conjunction with diet restrictions. Contact provider if unexplained muscle pain occurs. Emphasize the importance of follow up exams

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration assessment) Obtain dietary history.

Assessment Why would you hold or not give this med? Hypersensitivity reaction

Evaluation Check after giving Decreased serum LDL, VLDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol levels. Increase in HDL levels