Dexamethasone for Dyspnea in Cancer Patients: A Pilot Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Context

Dexamethasone is often used to treat dyspnea in cancer patients, but evidence is lacking.

Objectives

We determined the feasibility of conducting a randomized trial of dexamethasone in cancer patients and estimated the efficacy of dexamethasone in the treatment of dyspnea.

Methods

In this double-blind, randomized, controlled trial, patients with dyspnea ≥4 were randomized to receive either dexamethasone 8 mg twice daily × four days then 4 mg twice daily × three days or placebo for seven days, followed by an open-label phase for seven days. We documented the changes in dyspnea (0-10 numeric rating scale), spirometry measures, quality of life, and toxicities.

Results

A total of 41 patients were randomized and 35 (85%) completed the blinded phase. Dexametha

SUBMITTER: Hui D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4958556 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature