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.
Furosemide
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| PO/IV |
40mg each morning. Increase as needed to 40-80mg each morning to b.d. (max dose 160mg/day but usually requires 40-80mg each morning) |
| CSCI |
Start with same dose as patient's current oral dose, increase as needed by 50% up to max dose 300mg over 24h. |
Other Information
Indications
Oedema (pulmonary or peripheral), Hypertension, Heart failure.
Side-Effects
Dyspepsia, Thirst, Dizziness, Tinnitus and hearing impairment at high doses.
Remarks
Loop diuretic. Monitor electrolytes. For CSCI, use separate syringe driver or infusion pump (incompatible with other drugs). Dilute in 0.9% saline. CSCI may be used in the community in heart failure or end-stage renal disease.
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.