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Symptom control in cancer patients: the clinical pharmacology and therapeutic role of suppositories and rectal suspensions

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Supportive Care in Cancer Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Rectally administered medications are essential in palliative medicine, particularly in the last days of life. They are underutilized. The pharmacology of rectally administered medications relates not only to the medication but also to the suppository base, additives, drug ionization, pK a, absorptive surface of the rectum, and rectal health. The pharmacokinetics may differ from those of orally administered medications owing to reduced hepatic first-pass clearance. In this review the pharmacology of rectally administered palliative medications is reviewed and the use of individual drugs is outlined.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Harry R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine, 9500 Euclid Avenue R35, Cleveland OH 44195, USA

    Mellar P. Davis & Declan Walsh

  2. Department of Hematology/Medical Oncology, the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center, 9500 Euclid Avenue R35, Cleveland OH 44195, USA

    Susan B. LeGrand & Michael Naughton

Authors
  1. Mellar P. Davis
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  2. Declan Walsh
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  3. Susan B. LeGrand
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  4. Michael Naughton
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Correspondence to Mellar P. Davis.

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Davis, M.P., Walsh, D., LeGrand, S.B. et al. Symptom control in cancer patients: the clinical pharmacology and therapeutic role of suppositories and rectal suspensions. Support Care Cancer 10, 117–138 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-001-0311-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-001-0311-6

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