Assignment sample solution of PHAR3002 - Pharmacy Practice

A patient has been prescribed a statin medication, specifically atorvastatin, to manage their hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol). The pharmacist is tasked with counselling the patient on how the drug works, potential side effects, and any important considerations. The patient asks several questions:

1. What is the mechanism of action of atorvastatin, and how does it help in lowering cholesterol levels?

2. The patient is concerned about potential side effects, including muscle pain, and asks about the risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. How should the pharmacist explain these side effects?

3. The patient is also taking simvastatin and is curious about how atorvastatin compares with other statins in terms of efficacy, side effects, and drug interactions. What key differences should the pharmacist highlight in the counselling session?

Using your knowledge of pharmacology, pharmacy practice, and patient counseling, provide a detailed explanation of the mechanism of action of atorvastatin, the risks of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis, and compare atorvastatin with other statins such as simvastatin in terms of efficacy, side effects, and drug interactions.