A 64-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer has chronic pain well controlled on sustained-release Morphine. She has developed constipation with ...

Question

A 64-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer has chronic pain well controlled on sustained-release Morphine. She has developed constipation with hard stools every 3–4 days. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Prescribe a regular stimulant plus softening laxative alongside ongoing opioid

Answer

Stop Morphine and use Paracetamol only

Answer

Add a bulk-forming laxative alone

Answer

Treat with rectal NSAID suppositories

Answer

Reassure that constipation is inevitable and do nothing

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Opioid-induced constipation

A 64-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer has chronic pain well controlled on sustained-release Morphine. She has developed constipation with hard stools every 3–4 days. What is the most appropriate management?