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Clarithromycin and simvastatin — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsClarithromycin and simvastatinGPhC CRA

A patient taking simvastatin 40 mg nightly is prescribed clarithromycin for pneumonia. They ask whether to keep taking the statin. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: E — Increased simvastatin exposure with myopathy risk

Clarithromycin inhibits metabolism of simvastatin and increases muscle toxicity risk. The best answer addresses the key safety, legal or pharmaceutical care issue in the vignette. The other options would either delay appropriate care, create a new risk, or fail to resolve the issue. This is consistent with the cited UK reference for safe pharmacy practice.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS; NICE antimicrobial prescribing guidance