Nonopioid medication for the relief of refractory breathlessness

Purpose of review: To provide an overview of recent evidence relating to nonopioid medication for the treatment of refractory breathlessness. Recent findings: A search of publications since 2013 found systematic reviews on phenothiazines and nebulized medications, together with one study examining the use of benzodiazepines and another nebulized furosemide. However, all provided limited data and concluded that further clinical trials are required. Summary: Based on this review, there is insufficient evidence to support the routine use of nonopioid medication in the treatment of refractory breathlessness.
Source: Current Opinion in Supportive and Palliative Care - Category: Palliative Care Tags: RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS: Edited by David C. Currow and Miriam J. Johnson Source Type: research