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Opioid formulation counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCNS TherapeuticsOpioid formulation counsellingGPhC CRA

A 50-year-old man presents with a prescription for oxycodone modified-release 10 mg tablets, one twice daily, and oxycodone immediate-release 5 mg capsules, one as required up to four times daily for breakthrough pain. He asks about the difference between the two formulations. What is the most appropriate explanation?

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Correct answer: E — The modified-release tablets provide steady pain relief throughout the day and must be swallowed whole, while the immediate-release capsules are for when pain breaks through

Modified-release oxycodone provides sustained analgesia over 12 hours and must be swallowed whole — crushing or chewing would release the full dose at once, risking fatal overdose. Immediate-release oxycodone provides rapid onset of action (within 30 minutes) and is used for breakthrough pain between modified-release doses. The patient should understand that both contribute to total daily opioid intake and that the breakthrough dose should be used as needed, not at fixed times.

Reference: BNF