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Take-home naloxone counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePatient Counselling and Pharmaceutical CareTake-home naloxone counsellingGPhC CRA

A carer collects take-home naloxone for a patient using high-dose oxycodone for cancer pain. The patient also takes lorazepam at night and has COPD. The carer asks when to use naloxone. What would you advise the patient?

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Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — use naloxone if opioid overdose is suspected and call 999 immediately

Naloxone is used for suspected opioid overdose, particularly with reduced consciousness and slow or ineffective breathing. Emergency services must be called because naloxone may wear off before the opioid and repeated dosing or respiratory support may be needed. COPD and benzodiazepine use increase the risk of respiratory depression. Naloxone is not used for constipation or tolerance prevention.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS: Palliative care