Statin-induced rhabdomyolysis from azithromycin interaction in a patient with heterozygous SLCO1B1 polymorphism

Hailey Burns1, Landon Russell2, Zachary L Cox1,3

  • 1Department of Pharmacy Practice, Lipscomb University College of Pharmacy, Nashville, TN, USA.

Abstract

Insights

Azithromycin and simvastatin can rarely cause rhabdomyolysis due to drug-drug-genome interactions. Genetic testing for SLCO1B1 polymorphism is recommended for patients with statin-induced myopathy.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Genetics
  • Clinical Medicine

Background:

  • Azithromycin is generally considered safe with simvastatin, unlike other macrolides.
  • Rare instances of drug interactions leading to adverse events necessitate further investigation.

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