A derivative of lovastatin and potent competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (hydroxymethylglutaryl COA reductases), which is the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. It may also interfere with steroid hormone production. Due to the induction of hepatic LDL receptors, it increases breakdown of LDL cholesterol. [PubChem]
Indication
For the treatment of hypercholesterolemia.
Pharmacology
Simvastatin, the methylated form of lovastatin, is an oral antilipemic agent which inhibits HMG-CoA reductase. simvastatin is used in the treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia and is effective in reducing total and LDL-cholesterol as well as plasma triglycerides and apolipoprotein B.
Affected Organisms
Humans and other mammals
Biotransformation
Hepatic, simvastatin is a substrate for CYP3A4.
Absorption
Absorption of simvastatin, estimated relative to an intravenous reference dose, in each of two animal species tested, averaged about 85% of an oral dose. In animal studies, after oral dosing, simvastatin achieved substantially higher concentrations in the liver than in non-target tissues.
Half Life
3 hours
Protein Binding
Both simvastatin and its b-hydroxyacid metabolite are highly bound (approximately 95%) to human plasma proteins.
Elimination
Following an oral dose of 14C-labeled simvastatin in man, 13% of the dose was excreted in urine and 60% in feces.
References
•
Wolozin B, Wang SW, Li NC, Lee A, Lee TA, Kazis LE: Simvastatin is associated with a reduced incidence of dementia and Parkinson's disease. BMC Med. 2007 Jul 19;5:20.
[Pubmed]
• Wolozin B, Wang SW, Li NC, Lee A, Lee TA, Kazis LE: Simvastatin is associated with a reduced incidence of dementia and Parkinson's disease. BMC Med. 2007 Jul 19;5:20. Pubmed
