Cholesterol-lowering drug. Zocor (Simvastatin) tablets on packaging. Zocor is a type of statin used to reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ('bad cholesterol') in the body. Cholesterol is carried around the body by LDLs for use by various cells. LDLs transport cholesterol to the arteries, where it builds up (atherosclerosis), leading to heart disease and strokes. Zocor works by blocking the effects of the enzyme HMG CoA reductase, which is involved in the synthesis of cholesterol. This action is accompanied by increased removal of LDLs from the bloodstream.