Question

A 65-year-old man with long-standing osteoarthritis of the knees has pain limiting his mobility despite weight loss and intermittent paracetamol. He has normal renal function and no history of peptic ulcer disease or cardiovascular disease. What is the most appropriate next pharmacological step?

Accepted Answer

Start a regular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug with gastroprotection as needed

Answer

Start long-term oral opioids

Answer

Commence disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs

Answer

Start high-dose systemic corticosteroids

Answer

Avoid all pharmacological treatments

Practice question

A 65-year-old man with long-standing osteoarthritis of the knees has pain limiting his mobility despite weight loss and intermittent paracetamol. He has normal renal function and no history of peptic ulcer disease or cardiovascular disease. What is the most appropriate next pharmacological step?