Supporting effective anticipatory prescribing in end of life care

Anticipatory prescribing is the prescribing and provision of medicines ahead of time to people whose death is expected. It is recognised as effective practice for patients receiving palliative and end of life care. The main aim of anticipatory prescribing is to ensure medicines are readily available to manage the symptoms that commonly occur at the end of life - such as pain, agitation, breathlessness, nausea and vomiting, and excess respiratory secretions. It also aims to prevent unwanted hospital admission if the patient's chosen place of death is at home. This article explores the evidence and guidance to support anticipatory prescribing, alongside the benefits and challenges associated with this practice.