Zocor: Do I have to take it at night?

My father takes simvastatin (Zocor) and was told by his doctor to take it at night. But my father has Alzheimer's, so it's up to my mom to make sure he takes all his medications. Since this is the only pill he has to take at night, they often forget. Can Zocor be taken in the morning with his other medications?

- Jan / Louisiana

Answer

Yes, simvastatin (Zocor) can be taken in the morning.

Some research suggests that simvastatin is slightly more effective when taken at night instead of in the morning. But what is really important is that your father takes his medication consistently. Because your father has Alzheimer's and has difficulty remembering to take his medication at night, it makes sense to give him the Zocor in the morning with his other medications. It shouldn't make a significant difference in his cholesterol levels.

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