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Simvastatin and clarithromycin — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsSimvastatin and clarithromycinGPhC CRA

A patient taking simvastatin 40 mg nightly is prescribed clarithromycin for a chest infection. He asks whether to continue usual medicines. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: A — Clarithromycin can increase simvastatin exposure and myopathy risk

Clarithromycin strongly inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise simvastatin concentrations. This increases myopathy and rhabdomyolysis risk, so the prescriber should review antibiotic or statin management. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF