The Syringe Driver (4^th Ed.) Continuous subcutaneous infusions in palliative care

The syringe driver is a simple and cost-effective method of delivering a continuous subcutaneous infusion (CSCI). A CSCI provides a safe and effective way of drug administration and can be used to maintain symptom control in patients who are no longer able to take oral medication. There have been several developments in this field since the third edition of this highly successful book. The text in this edition has been completely revised, incorporating new treatment options and an extensive list of new compatibility data. This book serves as a valuable reference source, providing comprehensive review of syringe driver use and administration of drugs by CSCI. The first chapter provides an overview of syringe drivers and CSCIs, including a useful array of frequently asked questions. The second chapter provides information about the chemistry of drug incompatibility and degradation. The third chapter comprises revised and referenced information relating to most drugs likely to be administered by CSCI using a syringe driver. The fourth chapter discusses the control of specific symptoms that are often encountered when CSCIs are required. The fifth and final chapter contains an extensive, referenced list of compatibility and stability data relating to drug combinations administered by CSCI.

Andrew is the Consultant Pharmacist for Palliative Care at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. He is also a project lead at the Marie Curie Palliative Care Institute, University of Liverpool and was appointed Honorary Lecturer at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University in 2010. His job involves clinical work, research and education and he is also an Independent Prescriber. Andrew is the author of several books, including Drugs in Palliative Care, The Syringe Driver and Chronic Pain, part of the Oxford Pain Management Library. He is also a co-author of Drugs in Cancer. He has contributed chapters to several books, including the Care of the Dying, Wall and Melzacks Textbook of Pain and Palliative Medicine.