Syringe Driver

The syringe driver is a small, portable battery-driver pump, used to give medication subcutaneously (underneath the skin), usually over 24 hours.

A person can be mobile and independent while receiving drugs through this method.

Syringe drivers are used primarily when someone is no longer able to take medicines by mouth. This may be because of persistent nausea, vomiting, dysphagia (difficulty in swallowing), weakness or being unconscious.

Because it delivers drugs slowly and steadily, a syringe driver may improve symptom control.

Syringe drivers are usually set up for use by nurses and/or doctors in hospitals and/or the community.

Contacts

Macmillan Cancer Support

89 Albert Embankment, London, SE1 7UQ

0808 808 00 00 (help line)

Macmillan information

Review date: April 2012

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