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ACS secondary prevention — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCardiovascular TherapeuticsACS secondary preventionGPhC CRA

A patient is discharged after an NSTEMI on aspirin 75 mg daily, ticagrelor 90 mg twice daily, ramipril and bisoprolol. Their discharge letter lists atorvastatin 80 mg at night, but the prescription shows simvastatin 20 mg. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: C — Query the statin discrepancy before dispensing

High-intensity statin therapy is standard after acute coronary syndrome unless contraindicated or not tolerated. A discrepancy between the discharge letter and prescription should be clarified because under-treatment may increase cardiovascular risk. Antiplatelets should not be withheld without a clinical reason. Non-prescribed alternatives such as red yeast rice are not appropriate secondary prevention.

Reference: https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/registration-assessment#stage-8-order-35