Top 100 drugs

Question 1

what is the mechanism of action of a statin

Answer 1

• Reduce cholesterol production by the liver by inhibiting HMG CoA reductase

Question 2

what needs checking at 3mnths and again at 12mnths when started on a statin ?

Answer 2

• LFT’s
• Can cause transient and mild raised ALT and AST

Question 3

Give 4 rare SE of statins

Answer 3

• Myopathy (causing muscle weakness and pain)
• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle damage – check the creatine kinase in patients with muscle pain)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Haemorrhagic strokes (very rarely)

Question 4

What commonly interacts with statins and should therefore be advised to stop statin if being commenced on this medication ?

Answer 4

• Macrolide antibiotic (clarithromycin/erythromycin)