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Hepatic impairment and paracetamol — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRenal and Hepatic ImpairmentHepatic impairment and paracetamolGPhC CRA

A patient with decompensated liver cirrhosis asks to buy paracetamol for abdominal pain. They also drink alcohol daily and have increasing abdominal swelling. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: E — Refer for clinical assessment before advising analgesic use

Decompensated cirrhosis with abdominal swelling needs clinical assessment, and analgesic choice should be individualised. Paracetamol may be used cautiously in some liver disease contexts, but daily alcohol intake and decompensation require review. NSAIDs are often problematic in cirrhosis because of renal and bleeding risks. Aspirin is not a treatment for ascites.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS