ModerateHMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins)×Glucocorticoids
Updated · Methodology
Mechanism
Dexamethasone induces CYP3A4. With prolonged therapy, atorvastatin plasma levels may fall modestly and lipid-lowering effect weakens.
Symptoms
The patient feels nothing. Laboratory: LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol rise during prolonged systemic glucocorticoid therapy.
Management
For short dexamethasone courses, no adjustment. For prolonged systemic therapy, monitor lipid profile every 2–3 months; increase atorvastatin by 25–50% if needed.
Check the full regimen, not just this pair
Opens the checker with these two drugs prefilled. Add the rest of the regimen and recompute additive risks.
Summary of a multi-drug list →
Medicine list: everything you take in one place →
Sources
- FDA: Dexamethasone tablet (Pangea Pharmaceuticals, LLC) – Prescribing Information (2019)– ; DailyMed setid a41e6e26-9ebb-4b06-866e-a24af21c644c
- AEMPS: Ficha técnica: Atorvastatina (nº registro 69536), sección 4.5 (2024)– AEMPS, CIMA, nº registro 69536, sección 4.5