NewsHealthHealthThe NHS urges simvastatin users to "call 111" for this sign of liver damage14:12, 24 May 2026Brits taking a widely-used medication are being urged to "call 111" if they experience a serious skin symptom. The NHS warns this could indicate liver damage.‌Simvastatin is a prescription medicine used to manage high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It's part of a drug class called statins, which are taken by approximately seven million people across the UK.‌Doctors may also prescribe simvastatin if you have diabetes, kidney disease, or familial hypercholesterolaemia (a condition that can lead to high cholesterol). However, like any medication, simvastatin can trigger side effects.‌The NHS website states: "Like all medicines, simvastatin can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them."Common but less serious side effects of simvastatin include:A headacheDizzinessFeeling sick (nausea)Digestive problems, such as constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion or fartingMuscle achesSleep problems‌The NHS advises: "Simvastatin will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery, but if you feel dizzy after taking it, wait until the dizziness stops." Patients should consult a pharmacist or GP if they experience any troublesome or persistent side effects.It continues: "They may be able to give you advice about how you can reduce the side effects."‌Serious side effectsThe NHS cautions that simvastatin can "sometimes" cause serious side effects, though "most of them are rare". One such side effect is inflammation of the liver (hepatitis).This can lead to yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. However, yellowed skin may be harder to detect in those with brown or black skin, according to the NHS.Article continues belowThe health body advised people to call 111 if "you're taking simvastatin and think you might be having serious side effects". Other potential serious side effects of simvastatin include:Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which can cause severe stomach painInflammation and damage to the muscles (muscle toxicity), which can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, pain and weaknessAn allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which can cause symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash or difficulty breathingFor more information, visit the NHS website here.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Healthy LifestyleFitness And HealthGood HealthHealthy LifeHealth and LeisureHealthHealthy LivingStatinsDrugsNHSHeart diseasePrescriptionsCholesterol