Evaluation of efficacy and safety of subcutaneous acetaminophen in geriatrics and palliative care (APAPSubQ)
Description
Introduction : Subcutaneous infusion (SC) or hypodermoclysis is an old perfusion technique that is generally underused although it has been shown to be effective. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) subcutaneous injection is performed in some centers despite the lack of conclusive evidence on its effectiveness. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of subcutaneous infusion of Acetaminophen in the treatment of pain and fever in geriatrics and in palliative care and to determine its safety profile and possible side effects. Material and Methods : This experimental study was conducted between 2018 and 2019 on adult patients in palliative care or in geriatrics in several hospitals and nursing homes in Lebanon. Primary outcomes were change in temperature; change in pain score on the numerical rating scale (NS) or on the Algoplus scale after 60 minutes from the start of the infusion; and the appearance of local side effects at the infusion site. Changes in the various parameters at 30 minutes and 180 minutes were also evaluated as secondary outcomes.