Simvastatin is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for high cholesterol. If you have just been prescribed simvastatin, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 2 July 2026.
What is simvastatin?
Simvastatin is a statin. It lowers your cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Brands and strengths
Simvastatin is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic simvastatin and under brand names including Zocor, Simvador and Ranzolont — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Simvastatin 10 mg tablets
- Simvastatin 20 mg tablets
- Simvastatin 40 mg tablets
- Simvastatin 80 mg tablets
- UK brands: Zocor, Simvador and Ranzolont
What simvastatin is used for
- High cholesterol
- Prevention of heart attack and stroke
How to take simvastatin
Usually taken once a day at night, as your body makes most cholesterol then. Avoid grapefruit juice, which can raise levels of the medicine. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects include headache and mild stomach upset. Tell a clinician promptly about unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Simvastatin: frequently asked questions
Yes. Zocor is the original brand name for simvastatin; the generic has the same active ingredient.
Your body makes most of its cholesterol overnight, so simvastatin works best taken in the evening.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for simvastatin, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your simvastatin delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for simvastatin, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Simvastatin.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.