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.
Pilocarpine
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| PO |
5-10 mg t.d.s. to q.d.s. (max dose 10mg q.d.s.) |
| SUBLINGUAL |
3 drops t.d.s. to q.d.s. of 4% eyedrop formulation |
Other Information
Indications
Dry mouth post radiotherapy to the head and neck region or secondary to Sjogren’s syndrome, Drug-induced dry mouth.
Side-Effects
Headache, Flu-like syndrome, Nausea, Urinary frequency, Sweating.
Remarks
Parasympathomimetic. Contraindicated in urinary or intestinal obstruction, glaucoma and unstable asthma. Stop after 2 days if no improvement on max dose for drug-induced dry mouth and after 12 weeks if radiation induced.
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.