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Statin-associated rhabdomyolysis — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardAdverse Drug Reactions and SafetyStatin-associated rhabdomyolysisGPhC CRA

A 46-year-old man taking atorvastatin 80 mg daily reports severe muscle pain and dark urine after starting clarithromycin from an out-of-hours service. He has been taking both for 3 days. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: D — Refer urgently for assessment of suspected rhabdomyolysis

Severe muscle symptoms with dark urine suggest possible rhabdomyolysis, especially after an interacting macrolide. The patient needs urgent medical assessment, including creatine kinase and renal function. Simply reducing the statin dose without assessment could delay treatment of a serious adverse reaction.

Reference: BNF; MHRA; SPS