A patient is prescribed simvastatin 40mg ON. They are subsequently started on clarithromycin 500mg BD for a chest infection. What is the potential int...

Question

A patient is prescribed simvastatin 40mg ON. They are subsequently started on clarithromycin 500mg BD for a chest infection. What is the potential interaction and appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis; Temporarily withhold simvastatin

Answer

Increased risk of bleeding; Monitor INR closely

Answer

Reduced efficacy of simvastatin; Increase simvastatin dose

Answer

Reduced efficacy of clarithromycin; Use alternative antibiotic

Answer

Increased risk of QT prolongation; Monitor ECG

prescribing safety assessment MCQ (SBA): Drug Interaction (Statin + Macrolide)

A patient is prescribed simvastatin 40mg ON. They are subsequently started on clarithromycin 500mg BD for a chest infection. What is the potential interaction and appropriate management?