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High-dose statin muscle symptoms — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCardiovascular TherapeuticsHigh-dose statin muscle symptomsGPhC CRA

A 63-year-old man taking atorvastatin 80 mg after NSTEMI reports proximal muscle pain, malaise and dark urine. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: E — Arrange urgent assessment and withhold atorvastatin pending advice

This scenario assesses High-dose statin muscle symptoms in a UK pharmacy practice context. Muscle pain with dark urine suggests possible severe statin-associated muscle injury requiring creatine kinase and renal assessment. The best answer is Arrange urgent assessment and withhold atorvastatin pending advice because it addresses the principal clinical, legal or safety issue before routine supply. The other options are less appropriate because they either miss the key risk, delay necessary review, or would not meet expected BNF, NICE, MEP, MHRA or GPhC practice standards.

Reference: BNF; MHRA Drug Safety Update