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Vytorin Danger, Gemfibrozil, Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis
Simvastatin, which is also part of Merck's cholesterol drug Vytorin and Abbott Laboratories' drug Simcor, is sold by 11 other generic drug makers, including Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, and Novartis's Sandoz division.
The dosage range for Vytorin is 10/10 mg./day through 10/80 mg./day. The recommended usual starting dose is 10/20 mg./day. Vytorin should be taken as a single daily dose in the evening, with or without food.
Patients who require a larger reduction in LDL-C may begin at 10/40 mg./day. After initiation of Vytorin, lipid levels may be analyzed after two or more weeks and dosage adjusted, if needed.
Vytorin concerns
The safety and effectiveness of Vytorin administered with fibrates have not been established so the combination of Vytorin and fibrates should be avoided per the Vytorin packaging.
There is an increased risk of myopathy when simvastatin is used concomitantly with fibrates (especially gemfibrozil). Combination therapy with gemfibrozil should be avoided because of an increase in simvastatin exposure with concomitant use.
The results of an earlier, small study published last year suggested that Vytorin might boost the chances of developing cancer. In that earlier study, called SEAS, researchers found that among patients taking Vytorin, 101 patients developed cancer compared with 65 in the control group. Among these patients, 39 taking Vytorin died, compared with 23 in the control group.
But, a three-study analysis in the Sept. 2, 2008, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine did not find compelling evidence of such a connection.
People taking Vytorin 10/80 with 10 mg. of Zetia and 80 mg. of simvastatin should be aware of the FDA alert regarding the dangers of extreme muscle weakness or rhabdomyolysis.
Have you or a loved one developed extreme muscle weakness rhabdomyolysis from taking Vytorin 10/80? Have you suffered kidney damage or renal failure from taking Vytorin 10/80? Do you need a Vytorin lawyer to fight the drug companyfor your Vytorin injury?
