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Topical NSAID and apixaban — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateMusculoskeletal TherapeuticsTopical NSAID and apixabanGPhC CRA

A patient taking apixaban asks whether topical ibuprofen gel is safer than oral ibuprofen for localised osteoarthritis pain. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: D — Topical NSAIDs have lower systemic exposure but bleeding and skin reaction cautions still need discussion

Topical NSAIDs generally have lower systemic exposure but risk is not absent. In this scenario, the pharmacist should prioritise safe supply, appropriate counselling and timely referral or clarification where needed. This is the single best answer because the other options would either delay assessment, ignore a clinically significant risk, or create an unsafe legal or professional outcome.

Reference: BNF