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Primary prevention statin — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCardiovascular TherapeuticsPrimary prevention statinGPhC CRA

A 52-year-old man has a QRISK3 score of 14% and asks why the GP has prescribed atorvastatin 20mg at night. He has no history of cardiovascular disease and his liver function tests are normal. What would you advise the patient?

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Correct answer: E — The medicine reduces primary prevention cardiovascular risk and can be taken once daily

Atorvastatin 20mg daily is commonly used for primary prevention when cardiovascular risk is sufficiently raised. It reduces long-term risk rather than treating acute symptoms. Atorvastatin can be taken at a convenient time of day, and counselling should include muscle symptoms and follow-up lipid testing.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF