how to monitor for myopathy in patients taking statins

March 2006

There's some confusion about how to monitor for myopathy in patients taking statins...and what to do if it occurs.

Muscle aches are common, so it can be hard to determine if they're due to a statin.

Routine lab monitoring is usually NOT helpful.

Get concise advice on drug therapy, plus unlimited access to CE

Pharmacist's Letter Canada includes:

12 issues every year, with brief articles about new meds and hot topics
200+ CE courses, including the popular CE-in-the-Letter
Quick reference drug comparison charts
Access to the entire archive

Subscribe Today!

Already a subscriber? Log in

Volume pricing available. Get quote

Table of Contents

updated guidelines on menopausal treatment
Cardiology LOW-dose vitamin K supplements to stabilize the effect of warfarin in certain patients
Cardiology Ranexa (ranolazine) for chronic angina
whether saw palmetto is effective for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Some experts are now saying NOT to rely on soy protein or isoflavone supplements to prevent heart disease
Diabetes & Endocrinology Somavert is a new treatment option for acromegaly
Diabetes whether sulfonylureas increase mortality
Diabetes The new inhaled insulin, Exubera, is getting patients excited
Kidney Disease Even patients with SEVERE kidney disease seem to benefit from ACE inhibitors
Obesity & Weight Loss Acomplia and OTC orlistat for weight loss
Statins how to monitor for myopathy in patients taking statins
Canadians may not be able to get epinephrine inhalers (Primatene Mist, etc) from the U.S. anymore
Infectious Diseases possible liver toxicity in patients taking Ketek (telithromycin)
Infectious Diseases Health Canada is advising NOT to use Tequin (gatifloxacin) in patients with diabetes
Pertussis the need for timely pertussis vaccinations and booster doses