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.
Quetiapine
Route, Dosage and Frequency
ROUTE
|
DOSAGE AND FREQUENCY
|
| PO |
12.5mg b.d. Increase by 12.5-25mg as needed to 12.5-50mg at bedtime to b.d. (max 100mg/day). For psychosis, may need higher doses (max dose 100mg/day). |
Other Information
Indications
Psychotic disorders, Agitation, Delirium.
Side-Effects
Drowsiness, Dizziness.
Remarks
Atypical antipsychotic. Caution in patients with dementia (increased mortality) or seizures (lowers seizure threshold). Lowest risk of extrapyramidal side effects of all atypical antipsychotics. Adjust dose in renal or liver impairment.
Reference
- Watson M. Oxford Handbook of Palliative Care. Oxford, NY: Oxford University Press; 2009.