Statins

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Mode of action inhibit HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, leading to decreased cholesterol synthesis

S/E myopathy, liver impairment

C/I macrolides, pregnancy/breastfeeding, ALT>3x

Monitoring

• TFTs, U&Es, LFTs before starting; LFTs also at 3m, 12m, then yearly.
• CK pre-Rx if muscle aches and pains
• HbA1c pre- and 3m if high risk of DM
• Lipids — baseline and then at 3m. Aim 40% drop in non-HDL cholesterol

Dosing

Primary Prevention atorvastatin 20mg OD
Secondary Prevention atorvastatin 80mg OD