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.
Octreotide
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| SC |
300-800 micrograms over 24h |
Other Information
Indications
Intestinal obstruction (reduces GI secretions and motility), Enterocutaneous fistulae, Intractable diarrhoea, Hormone secreting tumours (e.g. carcinoid syndrome, VIPomas).
Side-Effects
Dry mouth, Flatulence, Impaired glucose tolerance.
Remarks
Somatostatin analogue. Painful if given as SC bolus. Use separate syringe driver or infusion pump (incompatible with other drugs). Use 0.9% saline for dilution. Very costly. Long acting formulation available (10-30mg every 4 weeks).
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.