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5. Pharmacologic Interventions
➤ Systemic opioids should be offered to patients with dyspnea when
non-pharmacologic interventions are insufficient to provide dyspnea
relief. (Moderate recommendation; EB-L)
➤ Short-acting benzodiazepines may be offered to patients who
experience dyspnea-related anxiety and continue to experience
dyspnea despite opioids and other non-pharmacologic measures.
(Weak recommendation; EB-L)
➤ Systemic corticosteroids may be offered to select patients with
airway obstruction or when inflammation is likely a key contributor to
dyspnea. (Weak recommendation; EB-L)
➤ Bronchodilators should be used for palliation of dyspnea when
patients have established obstructive pulmonary disorders or
evidence of bronchospasm. (Weak recommendation; EB-L)
➤ Evidence remains insufficient for a recommendation for or against
the use of anti-depressants, neuroleptics, or inhaled furosemide for
dyspnea.
➤ Continuous palliative sedation should be offered to patients with
dyspnea that is refractory to all standard treatment options and
all applicable palliative options, and who have an expected life
expectancy of days. (Moderate recommendation; IC-L)
