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Multiple Choice

What is the clinical consequence of statins' interaction with strong CYP inhibitors?

When a strong CYP inhibitor is present, it slows the metabolism of statins that are substrates of those enzymes (especially CYP3A4). This leaves more drug in the circulation, increasing plasma concentrations. The result is a higher risk of statin-associated toxicity, most notably myopathy and potential progression to rhabdomyolysis, and possible liver injury. In practice, this means coadministering such inhibitors with certain statins can significantly elevate exposure to the drug. If this combination is necessary, dose adjustment or choosing a statin less dependent on CYP3A4 (or avoiding the interaction altogether) is often considered.

When a strong CYP inhibitor is present, it slows the metabolism of statins that are substrates of those enzymes (especially CYP3A4). This leaves more drug in the circulation, increasing plasma concentrations. The result is a higher risk of statin-associated toxicity, most notably myopathy and potential progression to rhabdomyolysis, and possible liver injury. In practice, this means coadministering such inhibitors with certain statins can significantly elevate exposure to the drug. If this combination is necessary, dose adjustment or choosing a statin less dependent on CYP3A4 (or avoiding the interaction altogether) is often considered.