Medications for Comfort & Pain Management
At National Hospice and Palliative Care we prioritize patient comfort and dignity. Managing pain and symptoms effectively is one of the most critical aspects of hospice care. Our dedicated team, led by our board-certified oncologist and medical director, carefully formulates and adjusts medications to meet the unique needs of each patient.
Pain Management Tailored to You
Medications Used in Hospice & Their Purpose
Pain & Comfort
- Morphine, Hydromorphone (Dilaudid), Oxycodone, Fentanyl – Used to relieve moderate to severe pain and ease breathing difficulties.
- Methadone – Effective for complex pain management and nerve pain.
Anxiety & Agitation
- Lorazepam (Ativan), Diazepam (Valium), Midazolam – Helps with anxiety, agitation, and restlessness.
- Haloperidol (Haldol) – Manages terminal restlessness and severe agitation.
Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
- Morphine, Fentanyl – Reduces the sensation of breathlessness.
- Albuterol, Ipratropium (Atrovent) – Helps open airways for those with COPD or lung conditions.
Nausea & Vomiting
- Ondansetron (Zofran), Metoclopramide (Reglan), Prochlorperazine (Compazine), Haloperidol (Haldol) – Controls nausea caused by illness or medication side effects.
Secretion Control (Excess Mucus & Congestion)
- Atropine Drops, Scopolamine Patch, Glycopyrrolate – Reduces excessive secretions and helps with breathing comfort.
Seizures
- Levetiracetam (Keppra), Lorazepam (Ativan), Diazepam (Valium) – Used for seizure prevention and management.
What Medications Are Commonly Used in Hospice?
- Pain Relievers: Such as opioids (morphine, oxycodone) for severe pain and acetaminophen for mild discomfort.
- Anti-Anxiety Medications: To help ease restlessness or agitation.
- Antiemetics: For nausea and vomiting relief.
- Respiratory Medications: To alleviate shortness of breath or reduce congestion.
- Laxatives: To address constipation caused by medications or illness.
How We Manage Medications
Comprehensive Oversight
Our interdisciplinary team, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, works together to create and monitor a safe and effective medication plan.
Family Involvement
We educate caregivers on how to administer medications, recognize side effects, and ensure their loved one’s comfort.Family Involvement
Ease of Access
Medications are delivered directly to your home or care setting, so you can focus on spending time with your loved one instead of managing logistics.
All Medications Are Provided at No Cost
All hospice-related medications are completely free of charge to you and your family. Insurance, including Medicare, covers the cost of all necessary medications related to hospice care, so you can focus on comfort and quality time with loved ones.
If you have any questions about medications, how they work, or what to expect, our hospice team is available 24/7 to provide support and guidance.
Call us today us at 866-634-2333 or contact us at info@NationalHospice.com to learn more about our hospice services and how we ensure compassionate, expert care at every step.
Hospice care is a specialized form of care that focuses on providing comfort and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with serious, life-limiting illnesses
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