hroat or lungs. Breathing may sound moist or congested. Secretions can be best managed with medications, turning and positioning the person every few hours, keeping the head of the bed up and frequent mouth care.These measures will prevent pooling of the secretions and allow gravity to assist with drainage. Deep suctioning is not usually helpful and may increase secretions or make the person uncomfortable.Medications:Appetite Stimulants:1. Prednisone 5-10 mg TID: more appropriate if prognosis is 4-8 week range2. Megace (megastrol) 160mg po TID for optimum effect. Costly, but most likely to be effective in improving appetite and weight gain if prognosis in the 2-month or greater range.3. Antidepressants such as Elavil (amitriptyline) 10-25 mg TID or 25-75 mg @ HS.4. Marinol now approved for appetite stimulation in HIV patients: 2.5 mg before lunch and before dinner.5. Periactin (cyproheptadine) 4mg PO TID 30 min before meals....
