The use of subcutaneous midazolam in the home care setting

Abstract

The use of continuous subcutaneous infusions of midazolam in six patients is described. These patients were all suffering from advanced cancer and cared for at home by a hospice-based team. The drug was used to control restlessness in the last stages of life and in all cases produced a beneficial therapeutic effect. In these cases it provided a desirable alternative to other benzodiazepines or phenothiazines, was convenient to administer and no side effects arising from its use were noted.