Appetite Stimulants in Terminal Care: Treatment of Anorexia

SUMMARY

Anorexia is a common problem in terminally ill patients. The loss of appetite brings with it physical, psychological, and social problems. Effective treatment, therefore, should be multidimensional. The pharmacist is well-positioned to evaluate the appropriate use of medications for their effects on appetite, weight gain, mood, nausea, and anorexia. Studies have demonstrated that megestrol acetate has the most positive results in patients with advanced cancer and human immunodeficiency virus. Other medications studied have a less significant impact. Total parenteral nutrition can also sustain meaningful life for many terminally ill patients, but it is rarely successful in alleviating the anorexia associated with terminal illness.

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Notes on contributors

Phyllis A. Grauer

Phyllis A. Grauer, RPh, is Clinical Pharmacist for Hospice at Riverside, Columbus, OH.