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Statin liver and muscle safety — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateAdverse Drug Reactions and Drug SafetyStatin liver and muscle safetyGPhC CRA

A 50-year-old woman starting atorvastatin asks which adverse effects should prompt medical advice. She has no baseline liver disease. What would you advise the patient?

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Correct answer: B — Report unexplained muscle pain, weakness or dark urine

Unexplained muscle pain, weakness or dark urine may indicate statin-associated muscle injury and should prompt medical advice. Liver symptoms such as jaundice or dark urine also warrant review. Most patients tolerate statins well, but safety-netting improves early detection of rare serious harm. Extra doses would increase risk.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS