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OTC statin supply — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDispensingOTC statin supplyGPhC CRA

A 45-year-old man attends the pharmacy requesting simvastatin 10 mg over the counter. He says his father died of a heart attack aged 50 and he wants to reduce his risk. He takes no regular medication. His blood pressure measured in the pharmacy is 126/78 mmHg. What is the most appropriate response?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Advise him to see his GP for a formal cardiovascular risk assessment

While simvastatin 10 mg is available as a pharmacy (P) medicine for adults at moderate risk of a first coronary event, a family history of premature cardiovascular disease suggests this patient may be at higher risk and warrants a formal cardiovascular risk assessment by his GP, including QRISK calculation and lipid profile. This will determine whether he needs a higher-intensity statin on prescription. OTC supply without a proper assessment would not be in his best interest.

Reference: https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/registration-assessment#stage-8-order-17