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Opioid constipation — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCNS TherapeuticsOpioid constipationGPhC CRA

A patient newly started on modified-release morphine asks why the discharge medicines include senna and macrogol. They have no diarrhoea or abdominal 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 — Explain that regular laxatives prevent opioid-induced constipation

Opioid-induced constipation is common and tolerance does not reliably develop. Prophylactic laxatives are appropriate unless contraindicated. In this scenario, the correct option is explain that regular laxatives prevent opioid-induced constipation. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS