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Opioid constipation — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCNS TherapeuticsOpioid constipationGPhC CRA

A patient is discharged on morphine modified-release 10 mg twice daily and oral morphine solution for breakthrough cancer pain. No laxative is listed. They already have infrequent stools. What is the most appropriate alternative?

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

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Correct answer: A — Contact the prescriber about initiating a regular laxative regimen

Opioids commonly cause constipation, and prophylactic laxatives are usually needed unless contraindicated. This is particularly important in palliative and cancer pain where opioid therapy is expected to continue. Loperamide would worsen constipation. Stopping opioid analgesia without review would risk uncontrolled pain.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS