Simple drugs used in a subcutaneous infusion over 24 hours in palliative care 

Diluent: water for injection unless stated and make up to 17 ml in 20 ml syringe or 22 ml in 30 ml syringe using a BD Bodyguard T pump or 24 ml or 48 ml in a 50 ml syringe in a non-ambulatory pump

Single agents

Uses and typical dose ranges

Comments

Table 1c: Anticholinergics for chest secretions or bowel colic

GLYCOPYRRONIUM

200 micrograms in 1 ml

600 micrograms in 3 ml

Chest secretions or colic

Dose: 600 micrograms to 1,200 micrograms over 24 hours

2^nd line, no- sedative

Longer duration of action than hyoscine

HYOSCINE BUTLYBROMIDE

(Buscopan®)

200 mg in 1 ml

Chest secretions, bowel obstruction (colic, vomiting)

Dose: 40 mg to 120 mg over 24 hours

1^st line, non-sedative

HYOSCINE HYDROBROMIDE

400 micrograms in 1 ml

600 micrograms in 1 ml

Chest secretions

Dose: 400 micrograms to 1,200 micrograms over 24 hours

3^rd line, sedative

Can precipitate delirium