Question

A 68-year-old man with advanced COPD and metastatic lung cancer has severe dyspnoea at rest despite maximal disease-directed therapy. He is anxious about morphine. What is the most appropriate statement regarding opioids for dyspnoea in palliative care?

Accepted Answer

Low-dose opioids can safely reduce the sensation of breathlessness when titrated carefully

Answer

Opioids should be avoided because they always suppress respiration

Answer

Only benzodiazepines should be used for dyspnoea

Answer

Opioids are indicated only for pain, not breathlessness

Answer

High-dose opioids should be started abruptly

Practice question

A 68-year-old man with advanced COPD and metastatic lung cancer has severe dyspnoea at rest despite maximal disease-directed therapy. He is anxious about morphine. What is the most appropriate statement regarding opioids for dyspnoea in palliative care?