Muscle Damage Not Only Zocor Side Effect

Zocor and other statins are prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. The drugs do this by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. But as a side effect, statins also reduce levels of Coenzyme Q10, an important chemical in proper muscle functioning. There has been recent research to show that other complications arise from the hormones that statins like Zocor block. Cardiovascular Zocor side effects are serious and may be life-threatening. Because manufacturers of statins, like Zocor, have not provided adequate warnings or sufficient clinical studies, many of those suffering from cardiomyopathy caused by statins are pursuing legal action with a Zocor lawyer to recover compensation for medical bills and pain and suffering.

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle. There are three types of cardiomyopathy which can be caused by Crestor and other statins. The most common form of cardiomyopathy that is attributed to Crestor is dilated cardiomyopathy. With dilated cardiomyopathy, the heart becomes enlarged to the point where it cannot pump blood normally. This can lead to heart failure, arrhythmia, and the development of blood clots and the potential for embolisms. Statins, like Zocor, decrease bad (LDL) cholesterol in the blood by lowering the levels of an enzyme, CoQ10. This enzyme is essential to energy production in the heart and other muscles, and reduced levels of this chemical can lead to deterioration of the heart muscle, or cardiomyopathy.

Another side effect attributed to high-doses of Zocor is liver disease. Studies conducted at the Mayo Clinic indicate that Zocor and other statins can cause an increase of liver enzymes. In some patients taking Zocor this increase of liver enzymes can cause permanent liver damage. Erectile dysfunction, also known as ED, has been linked to use of Zocor in recent studies, adding to the ever-increasing list of Zocor side effects. The “adverse reactions” section of the Zocor side effects label now alerts users to the fact that some patients have begun to suffer from Zocor erectile dysfunction. Until a verifiable link is established, though, a Zocor erectile dysfunction lawsuit may be difficult to pursue.