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Statin-associated muscle symptoms — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareStatin-associated muscle symptomsUSMLE Step 3

A 64-year-old man returns after starting atorvastatin for primary prevention. LDL cholesterol decreased from 168 to 92 mg/dL. He has mild muscle aches but creatine kinase is normal and symptoms are tolerable. He has no weakness or dark urine. Which of the following would you recommend at the follow-up visit?

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

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Correct answer: B — Continue statin therapy and monitor symptoms

Mild statin-associated myalgias with normal CK can often be managed with continued therapy and monitoring when benefit is high.

Reference: ACC/AHA cholesterol guideline; USMLE Step 3 Content Outline