A patient will begin taking atorvastatin [Lipitor] to treat elevated LDL levels. The patient asks the nurse what to do to minimize the risk of myositis associated with taking this drug. What will the nurse counsel this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Patients taking a statin medication may take vitamin D and coenzyme Q supplements to reduce their risk of developing myositis. Citrus fruits can elevate statin levels and increase the risk of myositis. Fibrates also cause myositis in some patients, and adding a fibrate will increase the risk. Creatine kinase levels should be determined at baseline and as needed if symptoms occur but do not need to be monitored every 4 weeks.

A Patient Will Begin Taking Atorvastatin [Lipitor] to Treat Elevated