Mood Altering

Common medications: Lorazepam, Haldol
(Haloperidol), Seroquel (Quetiapine)

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How these medications help

  • They decrease anxiety and improve quality of life
  • They decrease agitation which can interfere with ability to be cared for safely
  • They can improve sleep duration and quality
  • If agitation is severe, injury can occur and it is safer to give these medications

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How to take

  • Take it by mouth
  • Tablets should be taken with at least 1-2 ounces of fluid
  • Liquid forms of some of these medications are available
  • Can be given as needed or on daily basis. Discuss with the Hospice team

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When it will work

  • It can start working in about 30 MINUTES
  • There is a liquid form of Lorazepam which can work quicker
  • There are also preparations which can be given by other routes if unable to take by mouth

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Lorazepam:

  • This is the most common medication to use for anxiety

  • The hospice team should have discussed the appropriates dose. If uncertain, you should contact them

  • It can be taken with pain medications, including opioids

  • Liquid Lorazepam is often provided in the 'comfort pack" as pre-filled syringes

Haldol:

  • This is a common medication for agitation, extreme restlessness

  • The hospice team should have discussed the appropriate dose. If uncertain, you should contact them

  • Liquid Haldol is often provided in the 'comfort pack'

  • For extreme agitation, the Hospice Team may give more and by different route other than by mouth

  • Can also be safely taken with pain medications

Seroquel (Quetiapine):

  • An effective medication for anxiety and agitation

  • Often given at nighttime to aid with sleep. Discuss appropriate dosing with the hospice team

  • Safe to take with pain medications

Common side effects

Excess sedation

Forgetfulness, inability to remember recent events during time medication was working

Lethargy, excess fatigue

When to call the Hospice

Inability to wake up

Increasing agitation, restlessness

Muscle spasms, uncontrolled movements

Breathing that becomes unusually slow or weak

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