Reports of simvastatin (Zocor) being responsible for gynecomastia have surfaced in recent years. Simvastatin is the active ingredient of Zocor, a medication that inhibits the levels of bad cholesterol and fat in the blood. It belongs to the statin drug class, otherwise known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. The more common side effects of the drug are dizziness, fainting, constipation, stomach pain, forgetfulness, and irregular heartbeat. Incidents of gynecomastia occurring in men who take the drug are known, but are not common.
In 2012, a study gathered reports from the Italian spontaneous adverse drug reaction (ADR) database resulted to a positive link of the statin drug class to the incidence of gynecomastia. Out of 1,334 reports which concerned a male patient, eight cases implicated statin to allegedly cause gynecomastia. Greater risks are expected as the potency of the drug is increased. Statins have been identified to upset testosterone levels in the body, giving way to the dominance of estrogen which consequently enlarges the breast tissues.
Nevertheless, simvastatin (Zocor) is an important medication for the prevention of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications. It works by preventing the accumulation of plaque in the blood vessels by blocking the enzyme that produces cholesterol and increasing the receptors in the liver of low density lipoprotein, also known as bad cholesterol. It better equips the liver to break down the bad cholesterol found in the blood.
The drug is commonly prescribed to older men, in which case the condition of gynecomastia might already be pre-existing. An increase in the levels of fatty tissues is natural in old age. That is why it is advisable to read medical resources and have yourself checked up before jumping into conclusions. Prior to discontinuing the intake of the drug to resolve breast enlargement and tenderness, there must be due consideration of the potential risks of heart related complications that may arise in its absence. First and foremost, seek the advice of a physician to know what is best for your condition. More importantly, a healthy lifestyle should accompany the treatment of high cholesterol. Incorporating healthy choices in your diet is the best way to combat cholesterol build-up in the blood vessels. Combine that with regular exercise and you are all set for a healthier body.
Drug induced gynecomastia is a medical issue which concerns consumers and medical practitioners. Adverse reactions to a drug, particularly those that are not commonly associated with it, should be reported immediately to health authorities. Doctors should properly orient their patients with the possible side effects of the medications they are prescribing. Conversely, users should not be quick in associating gynecomastia to a certain drug. Information must be grounded on expert opinions to avoid unnecessary hesitations of other consumers in getting the treatment that is right for them.
Ultimately, most cases of gynecomastia are not life threatening. It is simply a manifestation of an underlying condition. Other causes could be physiological such as puberty and old age. It could also be a result of chronic diseases like kidney failure, which results to malnourishment and hormonal imbalance. In general, only 10-25% of cases are pharmacologically induced.
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