Begley, S., Rose, K., & O'Connor, M. (2016). The use of corticosteroids in reducing cancer-related fatigue: Assessing the evidence for clinical practice. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 22, 5–9.
DOI Link
Purpose
STUDY PURPOSE: To assess the evidence regarding the use of corticosteroids for fatigue among patients with advanced cancer
Search Strategy
Literature Evaluated
Sample Characteristics
- FINAL NUMBER STUDIES INCLUDED = 4
- TOTAL PATIENTS INCLUDED IN REVIEW = Not provided
- SAMPLE RANGE ACROSS STUDIES: Not provided
- KEY SAMPLE CHARACTERISTICS: All studies were of patients with advanced disease with minimal life expectancy.
SAMPLE RANGE ACROSS STUDIES,
Phase of Care and Clinical Applications
- PHASE OF CARE: End-of-life care
- APPLICATIONS: Palliative care
Results
All studies reported improvement in patient-reported fatigue. Gaps were noted in information regarding side effects and the specifics of the dosage, etc., of the intervention.
Conclusions
Corticosteroids may improve fatigue in patients with advanced cancer, but potential adverse side effects have not been examined well.
Limitations
- Limited number of studies
- No details of included studies, such as sample sizes, etc., were provided.
Nursing Implications
Corticosteroids may improve fatigue in patients with cancer, but insufficient information about adverse effects exists. Steriods should not be used for a long duration—an intervention that may be useful for patients who desire short-term improvement in feelings of fatigue to participate in family events, etc.