Question

A 62-year-old man with metastatic lung cancer is in the last days of life with severe opioid-naïve cancer pain. He is still able to swallow but weak. What is the most appropriate initial strong opioid regimen in line with UK palliative care guidance?

Accepted Answer

Start oral immediate-release Morphine 5–10 mg 4-hourly with appropriate breakthrough doses

Answer

Start Morphine modified-release 60 mg twice daily with no breakthrough doses

Answer

Start Fentanyl transdermal patch 100 micrograms/hour as first-line

Answer

Use PRN IV Morphine only when he reports pain

Answer

Avoid opioids and use only NSAIDs to prevent respiratory depression

Practice question

A 62-year-old man with metastatic lung cancer is in the last days of life with severe opioid-naïve cancer pain. He is still able to swallow but weak. What is the most appropriate initial strong opioid regimen in line with UK palliative care guidance?