A patient is prescribed simvastatin 40mg OD for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. They are subsequently started on clarithromycin for a ...

Question

A patient is prescribed simvastatin 40mg OD for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. They are subsequently started on clarithromycin for a respiratory infection. What is the potential interaction between these two drugs, and what action should be taken according to the BNF?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of myopathy; Temporarily stop simvastatin

Answer

Increased risk of hepatotoxicity; Monitor LFTs closely

Answer

Decreased efficacy of simvastatin; Increase simvastatin dose

Answer

Increased risk of bleeding; Monitor INR

Answer

Decreased efficacy of clarithromycin; Use alternative antibiotic

prescribing safety assessment MCQ (SBA): Drug Interaction (Statin-Macrolide)

A patient is prescribed simvastatin 40mg OD for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. They are subsequently started on clarithromycin for a respiratory infection. What is the potential interaction between these two drugs, and what action should be taken according to the BNF?