Palliative Care Physicians' Practice in the Titration of Parenteral Opioids for Dyspnea in Terminally Ill Cancer Patients: A Nationwide Survey

Dyspnea is among the most prevalent and distressful symptoms in terminally ill cancer patients.1,2 Opioids remain the mainstream treatment for dyspnea. In the last phase of life, parenteral routes such as continuous subcutaneous/intravenous administration are frequently used to ensure timely titration and reliable administration in the setting of impaired oral intake and decreased consciousness. Guidelines suggest how to start parenteral opioids,3 but the evidence is scarce regarding further management.
Source: Journal of Pain and Symptom Management - Category: Palliative Care Authors: Tags: Letter Source Type: research