A 79-year-old woman with osteoarthritis of the knees takes regular paracetamol. She has CKD stage 3, hypertension and a previous peptic ulcer bleed. A...

Question

A 79-year-old woman with osteoarthritis of the knees takes regular paracetamol. She has CKD stage 3, hypertension and a previous peptic ulcer bleed. According to Australian pain and opioid stewardship guidance, what is the MOST appropriate next-line pharmacological option for her chronic knee pain?

Accepted Answer

Consider topical NSAIDs and non-pharmacological measures such as exercise and weight loss before systemic agents

Answer

Regular high-dose NSAIDs

Answer

Initiate long-term strong opioid therapy

Answer

Start systemic corticosteroids

Answer

Use benzodiazepines for pain relief

au-racgp MCQ (SBA): Osteoarthritis pain management in elderly

A 79-year-old woman with osteoarthritis of the knees takes regular paracetamol. She has CKD stage 3, hypertension and a previous peptic ulcer bleed. According to Australian pain and opioid stewardship guidance, what is the MOST appropriate next-line pharmacological option for her chronic knee pain?