Retrospective evaluation of morphine for dyspnea in terminal cancer patients
10.2512/jspm.8.334
- VernacularTitle:終末期がん患者の呼吸困難に対するモルヒネ使用の実態報告
- Author:
Takura Ochi
;
Hisashi Nakahashi
;
Naoki Nishikubo
;
Akira Takeuchi
;
Toru Sasaki
;
Yoji Mori
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
morphine;
dyspnea;
terminal cancer patients
- From:Palliative Care Research
2013;8(2):334-340
- CountryJapan
- Language:Japanese
-
Abstract:
Purpose: This retrospective study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of morphine for the management of dyspnea in terminal cancer patients. Methods: 64 terminal cancer patients, who had morphine administered for dyspnea management, were investigated. Dyspnea was assessed daily on the numerical rating scale (NRS; 0-5) before and 48 hours after the administration, and at the point of dose modifications. Result: The medication period was 34.7 days and the daily dose of morphine was 93.0 mg. The mean NRS decreased from 3.5 to 1.6 (p<0.001). 46 patients (72%) were started with an oral administration of normal-release morphine when-required. The major side effects of morphine, such as hypoxemia or decrease in respiratory rate, were not observed. Conclusion: Morphine is effective and safe for the management of dyspnea even in terminal cancer patients with careful titration.
