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Macrolide statin interaction — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfections and AntimicrobialsMacrolide statin interactionGPhC CRA

A patient taking simvastatin is prescribed clarithromycin for a chest infection. They have had muscle aches with statins before. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: E — Increased statin exposure and myopathy risk

Clarithromycin inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase simvastatin concentrations. The interaction should be managed by withholding or changing therapy according to prescriber advice. In this scenario, the correct option is increased statin exposure and myopathy risk. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: BNF; Stockley's Drug Interactions