Rationalising disease-modifying drugs for progressive neurological diseases in palliative care

Follow the principles of medication rationalisation when rationalising disease-modifying drugs in palliative care.

Continuing disease-modifying drugs used for progressive neurological diseases (eg riluzole for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or motor neurone disease, immunomodulators for multiple sclerosis) in the last months of life offers little benefit in terms of longevity and quality of life. Seek advice from the patient’s neurologist about the continued use of these drugs and timing of withdrawal.

For principles of palliative care for patients with motor neurone disease, see Principles of palliative care for patients with motor neurone disease.