Key takeaways
Rosuvastatin (Crestor) and simvastatin (Zocor) are both statins used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. They work by blocking an enzyme in your liver that makes cholesterol. However, they have some important differences. Rosuvastatin is a moderate-to-high intensity statin, while simvastatin is a low-to-moderate intensity statin. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic and typically taken once daily, but simvastatin should be taken at night. Rosuvastatin is available as a tablet and as Ezallor Sprinkle, while simvastatin is available as a tablet and an oral solution called Flolipid. Common side effects of both medications include muscle or joint pain and nausea. Simvastatin should not be taken with grapefruit juice. Both medications have many drug interactions and are not during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always be sure your prescriber and pharmacist have a complete list of your medications.
