A patient taking gemfibrozil [Lopid] and rosuvastatin [Crestor] concurrently begins to complain of muscle aches, fatigue, and weakness. What should the nurse monitor?

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Creatinine kinase levels are the best laboratory indicator of myopathy and/or rhabdomyolysis, which may lead to renal failure. As with the statins, gemfibrozil and other fibrates can cause myopathy. Fibrates must be used with caution in patients taking statins. Concurrent use of gemfibrozil and rosuvastatin does not cause tendon tenderness or a lupus-like syndrome. Liver function levels should be determined at the start of statin therapy and every 6 months thereafter in patients who do not have liver disease.

A Patient Taking Gemfibrozil [Lopid] and Rosuvastatin [Crestor] Concurrently Begins