A 39-year-old presents with severe opioid-naïve acute low back pain after lifting. No red flags. According to U.S. guidance, which prescribing approac...

Question

A 39-year-old presents with severe opioid-naïve acute low back pain after lifting. No red flags. According to U.S. guidance, which prescribing approach is preferred if an opioid is considered?

Accepted Answer

Immediate-release opioid at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration (often ≤3-7 days), after nonopioid therapies

Answer

Extended-release opioid to provide steady analgesia

Answer

Opioid plus benzodiazepine for muscle spasm

Answer

High-dose opioid to preempt tolerance

Answer

Long-term opioid contract initiated at first visit

us-abfm MCQ (SBA): Acute Pain (Opioid Prescribing)

A 39-year-old presents with severe opioid-naïve acute low back pain after lifting. No red flags. According to U.S. guidance, which prescribing approach is preferred if an opioid is considered?