skip to main content

Atorvastatin counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyCardiovascular TherapeuticsAtorvastatin counsellingGPhC CRA

A 58-year-old man collects atorvastatin 20mg daily for primary prevention. He asks whether he needs to take it at bedtime because his friend takes simvastatin at night. What would you advise the patient?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Atorvastatin can be taken at a convenient time each day

Atorvastatin has a long duration of action, so it can be taken at a convenient consistent time. This helps adherence and is different from some shorter-acting statins that are usually taken in the evening. Grapefruit juice can increase exposure to some statins and is not recommended as an aid. Crushing or alternate-day dosing should not be suggested for a standard new prescription.

Reference: BNF