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Statin adverse effect — DGM MCQ

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HardPolypharmacyStatin adverse effectDGM

A 77-year-old man reports proximal muscle pain and weakness after a dose increase. Creatine kinase is markedly raised and renal function is worsening. He recently started a macrolide antibiotic. Current medicines include atorvastatin, clarithromycin and amlodipine. Which medication should be reviewed?

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Correct answer: B — Atorvastatin interaction with clarithromycin

Statin-associated myopathy can be precipitated by interacting macrolides such as clarithromycin, especially after dose increase. Amlodipine alone is less likely to explain marked CK rise, and paracetamol, colecalciferol and macrogol do not fit. Interaction checks matter whenever new medicines are added to long-term treatment.

Reference: BNF; STOPP/START criteria v3