Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion of Morphine in Children With Cancer

Seventeen children with severe pain due to malignant neoplasm were successfully treated with a subcutaneous infusion of morphine sulfate using a syringe pump, and pain relief was adequate in every case without major side effects.

Abstract

Seventeen children with severe pain due to malignant neoplasm were successfully treated with a subcutaneous infusion of morphine sulfate using a syringe pump. Pain relief was adequate in every case without major side effects. The median dosage required was 0.06 mg/kg/hr (range, 0.025 to 1.79 mg/kg/hr). Three patients received the subcutaneous infusion at home. No patient required an intravenous line for pain control.