Zocor is a HMG CoA reductase inhibitor also known as cholesterol lowering drug. It prevents the formation of cholesterol in the body. If your blood cholesterol level is high then it is generally advised by the doctor in combination with a special diet plan. High level of cholesterol in the blood can put you in high risk of heart disease. This medication is meant especially for those who are not able to reduce their blood cholesterol by diet alone. This medication is also useful in increasing the level of HDL (good) cholesterol in the blood. Hence, it reduces the risk of hardening your arteries, which might lead to serious heart diseases, strokes. Also, you can prevent the need for bypass surgery or angioplasty to clear clogged arteries.
Zocor drug may also be used for purposes as well.

Before taking Zocor, side effects cannot be anticipated. The possibility and intensity of the below mentioned side effects can be different in different people. There have been an odd case of muscle problems, liver problems with people on Zocor Drug or other similar medication. Some of the more serious Zocor side effects are abdominal pain and headache. Some of the less serious side effects are constipation, diarrhea, gas, muscle weakness, rash, nausea, upper respiratory infection.
It is highly recommended that you should immediately check with your doctor if you experience any of the above mentioned problems or if you experience weakness, feverish, flu like symptoms, yellowing of skin or eyes, stomach ache. The later may be symptoms of muscle or liver problems.

Before taking this medication, your doctor might take your blood test to check the level of your liver enzymes as Zocor can cause liver damage. The blood samples will be taken periodically for about a year till your final dosage is increased. Your doctor might ask you to stop taking Zocor, if he sights any increase in your liver enzymes level.