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.
Ibuprofen
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| PO |
200-400mg q4h to q6h (max 1.2g/day) |
Other Information
Indications
Bone pain and Inflammatory conditions, Fever.
Side-Effects
Dyspepsia, Gastritis, Gastrointestinal bleed, Cardiovascular events, Renal impairment, Bronchospasm.
Remarks
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Caution in the elderly. May enhance the anticoagulant effect of Warfarin. Lower risk of gastrointestinal side-effects but higher risk of cardiovascular events compared to other NSAIDs. Topical preparations available.
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.