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Erythromycin and simvastatin — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsErythromycin and simvastatinGPhC CRA

A 55-year-old woman taking simvastatin is prescribed erythromycin for a respiratory infection. She has previously had muscle aches with statins. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: B — Erythromycin can increase statin myopathy risk

Macrolides such as erythromycin can inhibit simvastatin metabolism and increase myopathy or rhabdomyolysis risk. The prescriber may need to choose an alternative antibiotic or pause the statin. Previous statin muscle symptoms increase the importance of counselling and review.

Reference: BNF