The Survey of Pharmacotherapy for Hyperactive Delirium in Terminally Cancer Patients at Home

Abstract

Purpose : This study aimed to determine the medications currently prescribed for hyperactive delirium in terminal cancer patients in home care settings.

Methods : This study aimed to determine the medications currently prescribed for hyperactive delirium in terminal cancer patients in home care settings.

Results : Sixty-seven out of 401 participants were included in the analysis. The survey results showed that the most commonly prescribed first-line drugs for patients who could receive oral medications were risperidone (96%) and quetiapine (90%). For those who did not respond to first-line treatments, the type of antipsychotic was changed, or a benzodiazepine was added (including diazepam suppositories, 67%; intravenous midazolam, 61%). For patients who could not receive oral medications, haloperidol injection (72%) and midazolam injection (63%) were selected.

Conclusions : This study revealed the current treatment for terminal delirium in home care settings. It is necessary to develop a systematic approach to the treatment of delirium that considers the unique characteristics of home care.