skip to main content

IBS antispasmodic counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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

ModerateGastrointestinal TherapeuticsIBS antispasmodic counsellingGPhC CRA

A patient with diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome is supplied standard-release mebeverine for meal-triggered cramps. How should it usually be timed?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: DTake standard mebeverine 20 minutes before each main meal

Take standard mebeverine 20 minutes before each main meal: Mebeverine is conventionally taken before meals so its antispasmodic effect coincides with predictable post-prandial symptoms. Take standard-release mebeverine immediately after each main meal: Standard counselling is to take it before meals, not routinely after them. Take the full daily mebeverine dose together at bedtime: Combining doses is not the prescribed schedule and can increase adverse effects. Take mebeverine after each loose stool as an antimotility dose: Mebeverine is an antispasmodic, not a rescue antimotility agent. Crush modified-release mebeverine into food before each main meal: Modified-release dosage forms should not be crushed and this is not the product specified.

Reference: BNF: mebeverine hydrochloride: https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/mebeverine-hydrochloride/