A 67-year-old man with chronic back pain takes codeine regularly. He develops constipation with hard stools and straining. Which regimen is most appro...

Question

A 67-year-old man with chronic back pain takes codeine regularly. He develops constipation with hard stools and straining. Which regimen is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Stimulant laxative ± softener (e.g., senna ± docusate)

Answer

Bulk-forming laxative alone

Answer

Osmotic laxative only

Answer

Enema weekly

Answer

No treatment; increase fibre only

prescribing safety assessment MCQ (SBA): Opioid-induced constipation

A 67-year-old man with chronic back pain takes codeine regularly. He develops constipation with hard stools and straining. Which regimen is most appropriate?