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NSAID cardiovascular risk — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateMusculoskeletal TherapeuticsNSAID cardiovascular riskGPhC CRA

A patient with established heart failure asks to buy diclofenac tablets for knee osteoarthritis. He takes ramipril, bisoprolol and furosemide. What is the most appropriate alternative?

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

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Correct answer: E — Avoid diclofenac and suggest prescriber review or safer analgesic options

NSAIDs can worsen heart failure, cause fluid retention and reduce renal function. Diclofenac also carries cardiovascular risk. The patient should be advised against self-treatment with diclofenac and referred for an appropriate pain plan. Combining NSAIDs or stopping heart failure medicines would increase harm.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS