Just in case box

Hello scotleag,

Thanks for getting in touch and a warm welcome to the Online Community. I’m Heidi one of the Cancer Information Nurses here on the Macmillan Support Line. I can see you have joined our lung cancer forum and I hope you are finding it supportive.

Thank you for your question about the just in case box you received this morning.

Just in case medicines, also known as anticipatory medicines, can be given quickly if someone develops symptoms that are not being managed otherwise. For example if someone cannot take their medicines by mouth.

Providing medicines in advance means that there is no delay in getting medicines that might be needed suddenly to help with symptoms. They are typically used in the last few weeks or days of life.

This can feel reassuring, however please do feel comfortable checking with the healthcare professional that prescribed them. It is important you are completely aware of why they may have been issued, particularly if this has caused any distress. It is difficult for us to know if they have been prescribed for your wife for a different reason.

I hope the information helps to provide a starting point. It sounds as though there may be a lot going on for you at the moment and sometimes it helps to talk things through. Please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0808 808 0000, we are here every day from 8am to 8pm and would welcome your call.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch again if we can support you further.

Best wishes

Heidi 

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

Ref/ TT/HC

Hello Heidi,

Thank you very much for this. The GP has called round subsequent to my post and confirmed this is end of life treatment though couldn't be specific about a timescale. We have in the past been in touch with Macmillan both my wife and myself are grateful for the care and attention we have received. Thanks once again,