Gabapentin for Intractable Hiccups in Palliative Care
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2008
Description
Intractable hiccups are not common in the general population or in the palliative care population but can adversely impact quality of life and cause other complications such as weight loss and sleep disturbance. Many treatments have been proposed for intractable hiccups, but there is little consensus regarding treatment in the medical literature. This is partly because hiccups are relatively uncommon and many of the proposed treatments are unproven or have long-term side effects. Pharmacologic treatments rather than home remedies or surgical treatments are more appropriate for the palliative care patient. Gabapentin is a promising medication for the treatment of intractable hiccups for its safety, lack of serious side effects, and rapid onset of action. Further research is indicated to determine whether gabapentin is consistently effective.
Citation Information
Tegeler, Monica; and Baumrucker, Steven J.. 2008. Gabapentin for Intractable Hiccups in Palliative Care. American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Vol.25(1). 52-54. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049909107305657 PMID: 18292481 ISSN: 1049-9091