skip to main content

Codeine in hepatic impairment — GPhC CRA MCQ

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

ModerateRenal and Hepatic ImpairmentCodeine in hepatic impairmentGPhC CRA

A patient with decompensated cirrhosis asks to buy co-codamol for abdominal pain. He is drowsy and has had recent confusion. What is the most appropriate alternative?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Refer for urgent medical assessment and avoid supplying codeine-containing analgesia

Drowsiness and confusion in decompensated cirrhosis may indicate hepatic encephalopathy or another serious complication. Codeine can worsen sedation and constipation, both problematic in this context. NSAIDs are also often risky in cirrhosis due to renal and bleeding complications. The patient requires urgent medical assessment.

Reference: BNF