The philosophy behind hospice medications is rooted in comfort, dignity, and choice. Hospice care uses medications thoughtfully and purposefully to relieve suffering and support the best possible quality of life for someone who is nearing the end of life. Medications are tailored to each individual’s needs and are used to:
- Relieve pain and other distressing symptoms such as shortness of breath, anxiety, or nausea.
- Promote rest and ease, especially when symptoms become too difficult to manage without medical help.
- Support alertness and function, especially in earlier stages, when people often want to be awake and present with loved ones.
Importantly, hospice clinicians aim to find the right balance—enough medication to ease discomfort, but not so much that a person is sedated more than they want to be. Families and patients are part of this conversation, and care plans are adjusted over time as needs change.
In short, hospice medication use is compassionate, individualized, and guided by the goals and wishes of the person receiving care.
