Management of secretions in esophageal cancer patients with glycopyrrolate.
BACKGROUND
There has been little emphasis in the past upon management of excessive secretions in patients with esophageal cancer. We used the drug glycopyrrolate for controlling secretions in patients with esophageal cancer.


METHODS
Between January 1991 and September 1995, 45 patients with esophagus cancer were referred for evaluation. Seven of these patients were treated with glycopyrrolate for increased secretions. Secretions were measured in suction canisters which were used by patients.


RESULTS
All the patients showed a decrease in secretions within 24 48 hours of administration. The incidence of side effects was minimal.


CONCLUSIONS
Glycopyrrolate is quite effective in palliating esophageal cancer patients with excessive secretions.
Rashid
H
H
Division of Medical Oncology, Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Long
J D
JD
Wadleigh
R G
RG
D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism*; D005122:Exudates and Transudates / Q000187:drug effects*; D006024:Glycopyrrolate / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D018727:Muscarinic Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D018727:Muscarinic Antagonists; D006024:Glycopyrrolate