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Statin counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyPatient CounsellingStatin counsellingGPhC CRA

A 53-year-old man starts atorvastatin 20mg daily for primary prevention. He asks what adverse effects he should report. Baseline liver function tests are normal. What would you advise the patient?

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Correct answer: D — Report unexplained muscle pain, weakness or dark urine

Patients taking statins should report unexplained muscle pain or weakness, especially with malaise or dark urine, because of rare myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Liver function is usually checked at baseline and follow-up according to guidance. The medicine reduces long-term cardiovascular risk and should not be stopped without advice.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS