GPs looking after patients close to the end of life at home prefer to prescribe ‘anticipatory medications’, also known as ‘Just in Case’ drugs, weeks ahead of likely need whenever possible, according to a new study from the Cambridge Primary Care Unit. Anticipatory medications are intended to relieve symptoms that might emerge as patients approach […]
Family caregivers need support to administer end of life medications for patients dying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic
Doctors, nurses, and family caregivers worldwide are facing tough decisions concerning the supply and administration of medications to manage symptoms when patients are dying from COVID-19 or other conditions at home and in care homes. In many countries around the world, family caregivers are increasingly being asked to administer medications to relieve distressing symptoms for […]
Anticipatory syringe drivers: a step too far
The latest Gosport War Memorial Hospital inquiry has increased patient, public, and clinician awareness in the UK about syringe drivers for continuous subcutaneous delivery of opioids and other medications at the end of life. In safe hands, syringe drivers facilitate safe and effective symptom control for those no longer able to swallow or absorb tablets. […]
RESEARCH ALERT: The practice of prescribing “Just in Case” drugs for patients nearing the end of life in the community lacks evidence
“Just in Case” anticipatory prescribing – a common practice in community end of life care – lacks adequate evidence, according to a new review of the literature on this topic by researchers from the Primary Care Unit at the University of Cambridge. This research alert is for GPs and healthcare commissioners. Our Palliative and End […]
Appropriateness of prescriptions made in advance for patients nearing the end of life remains unknown
The prescription and dispensing of injectable medications to provide end of life symptom relief for patients approaching the end of their lives in the community, in advance of clinical need, is established practice in the UK and other countries. But a new review of the research literature reveals that this widespread practice is based on […]