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.
Hyoscine Butylbromide
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| PO |
10mg t.d.s. to q.d.s. |
| SC |
20mg q4h |
| CSCI |
60-240mg over 24h |
Other Information
Indications
Bowel colic, Upper airway secretions.
Side-Effects
Blurred vision, Constipation, Dry mouth, Difficulty with micturition, Tachycardia.
Remarks
Anticholinergic. Less sedating than Hyoscine hydrobromide. Avoid in bladder outflow obstruction, paralytic ileus and glaucoma. Poor oral bioavailability. Compatible with most drugs except cyclizine in syringe driver or infusion pump.
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.