Opioid Tolerance vs Hyperalgesia — FRCA Final MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyPain MedicineOpioid Tolerance vs HyperalgesiaFRCA Final

Chronic pain patient on stable opioids reports decreasing effect requiring dose escalation. Phenomenon?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Opioid tolerance

Opioid tolerance: repeated exposure → decreased effect → higher doses needed. Mediated by mu-receptor desensitisation/internalisation. Distinct from OIH (paradoxical increased sensitivity — pain becomes diffuse, dose escalation worsens). Tolerance is expected; OIH is pathological.

Reference: FPM – 2023 – Opioid-aware prescribing