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25.1.13

Hiccup

Malawi Standard Treatment Guidelines, 6th Edition, 2023. Chapter 25, Palliative Care.

Clinical Description

Common causes (see relevant chapter for details)

In advanced disease this is often caused by sub-diaphragmatic irritation e.g. from invasive tumour. it can be a troublesome distressing symptom and maybe difficult to control

Non-pharmacological

  • Manage and relieve anxiety
  • Reduce gastric distention (e.g. ascetic tap, small frequent meals etc.)

Pharmacological

  • Haloperidol 5-10mg by mouth STAT, maintenance 1.5-3mg at bedtime
  • Chlorpromazine 10-25mg by mouth (maintenance 25-50mg 8 hourly)

Check doses against the printed guideline and your clinical judgement before treating a patient. Spotted an error? Report it from the contact links below.

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