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.
Haloperidol
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| PO |
0.5-2mg once daily to t.d.s. (max dose 10mg/day) |
| SC |
0.5-2mg once daily to t.d.s. (max dose 10mg/day) |
| CSCI |
5-10mg over 24h |
Other Information
Indications
Nausea/vomiting, Delirium, Agitation, Hiccups.
Side-Effects
Extrapyramidal side-effects (e.g. akathisia, rigidity), Prolonged QTc (if given intravenously).
Remarks
Antipsychotic. Small doses for nausea, particularly drug or metabolic induced. Higher doses (>5mg/day) for psychosis and agitation. For CSCI, compatible with most drugs in syringe driver or infusion pump.
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.