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Simvastatin and amlodipine — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsSimvastatin and amlodipineGPhC CRA

A GP asks about a 70-year-old man on simvastatin 40 mg at night who has been prescribed amlodipine 10 mg daily. His liver function is normal and he has no muscle symptoms. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: D — Ask the GP to reduce simvastatin to 20 mg daily

Amlodipine increases exposure to simvastatin and the maximum recommended simvastatin dose with amlodipine is lower than usual. Timing separation does not remove this metabolic interaction. Reducing simvastatin, or changing to a statin with a more suitable interaction profile, is the appropriate intervention.

Reference: BNF