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

Diluent: 0.9% saline 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 1d: Non Steroidals (NSAIDS)

DICLOFENAC

75 mg in 3 ml

Relief of pain and inflammation

Dose: 75 mg to 150 mg over 24 hours

Administer in separate syringe pump: incompatible with most drugs

Avoid in patients with history or, or risk factors for heart disease

Monitor renal function

Injection is irritant, dilute maximally 0.9% saline

KETOROLAC

10 mg in 1 ml

30 mg in 1 ml

Short term management of pain

Dose: 60 mg to 90 mg over 24 hours

Likely to cause more GI irritation than diclofenac, concurrent gastro protection recommended

Avoid in patients with history of, or risk factors for heart disease

Monitor renal function

Injection is irritant, dilute maximally 0.9% saline