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Analgesic overuse headache — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCNS TherapeuticsAnalgesic overuse headacheGPhC CRA

A patient with daily headaches buys co-codamol every week and uses it most days. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: C — Advise review for medication-overuse headache and avoid further routine opioid use

Frequent analgesic use can perpetuate headache and opioid-containing analgesics are not suitable for routine long-term use. In this vignette, "Advise review for medication-overuse headache and avoid further routine opioid use" is the safest single best answer. The other options are less appropriate because they miss the key clinical risk, conflict with UK medicines guidance, or delay needed review.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS