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Gabapentin for intractable hiccups in palliative care
Monica L Tegeler1, Steven J Baumrucker
1East Tennessee State University College of Medicine, Kingsport, Tennessee, USA.
The American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care
|February 23, 2008
Summary
Intractable hiccups significantly impact quality of life. Gabapentin shows promise as a safe and effective pharmacologic treatment for intractable hiccups in palliative care patients.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Intractable hiccups are uncommon but severely affect patient quality of life.
- Existing treatments lack consensus and may have side effects.
- Pharmacologic interventions are preferred for palliative care patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate gabapentin as a treatment for intractable hiccups.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of gabapentin in palliative care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of proposed treatments for intractable hiccups.
- Focus on pharmacologic options suitable for palliative care.
Main Results:
- Gabapentin is identified as a promising medication.
- It offers safety, minimal serious side effects, and rapid action.
Conclusions:
- Gabapentin is a viable option for managing intractable hiccups.
- Further research is needed to confirm its consistent effectiveness.
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