This section gives an overview of the commonly used drugs (excluding opioids) to manage symptoms in patients with terminal illnesses. The information includes basic dosage information as well as indications for use and potential side effects. Please note that non-opioid drugs commonly used in palliative care in Singapore are shown here but the list is NOT exhaustive and neither are the side effects nor indications. Doses are for adults only. Please check with pharmacy colleagues for dose adjustments (if any) in renal or liver impairment. Unless otherwise indicated, use water for injection for dilution in continuous subcutaneous infusions.
*For information on opioids, please search and refer to the drugs with their given context.
Dexamethasone
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| PO |
2mg each morning to 8mg t.d.s. (max dose 24mg/day) |
| IV |
2mg each morning to 8mg t.d.s. (max dose 24mg/day) |
| CSCI |
2-24mg over 24h |
Other Information
Indications
Appetite (2-4mg each morning). Raised intracranial pressure, Superior vena cava obstruction, Spinal cord compression (8-24mg in 2-3 divided doses daily), Prevention of chemotherapy emesis (2-6mg/day).
Side-Effects
Elevated blood glucose, Proximal myopathy, Cushingnoid facies.
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.