A randomised control trial of mild opioids versus strong opioids for post-discharge analgesia following orthopaedic fracture surgery

INTERVENTION: Paracetamol 500mg and Codeine phosphate 8mg 1‐2 oral tablets, 4 times per day for 2 weeks (Maximum allowed 8 tablets in 24hrs) followed by dose reduction to cessation during week 3. Total number of tablets taken (1 or 2) will be determined by patient during days 1 ‐14. Adherence will be monitored via patient self‐report during trial period then tablet return on study completion. CONDITION: Fracture Orthopaedic Surgery Pain PRIMARY OUTCOME: Pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NRS‐11)) SECONDARY OUTCOME: Global perceived effect (Likert scale; ‐5 (vastly worse) to 0 (unchanged), to +5 (completely recovered).. ; Mobility (Question 1 of EQ‐5D‐5L) Pain (The Numeric Pain Rating scale) Quality of life (EQ‐5D‐5L) ; Return to work (Yes or No, subject self‐report) Treatment Adverse events ; (Self report, Yes or No to common known adverse reactions) (Constipation, Drowsiness, Nausea, Vomiting, Hallucinations, Dizziness, Confusion and Skin rash) INCLUSION CRITERIA: Orthopaedic fracture of a long bone (humerus, radius, ulna, femur, tibia or fibula) or the pelvis, patella, calcaneus or talus requiring surgical fixation.