Patients in the community experiencing chronic intractable pain may benefit from continuous infusions of analgesics. Historically, this has often been accomplished using a conventional syringe driver (designed primarily for hospital use). However, these devices often require drug replenishment on a daily basis and also frequent battery re-charging. Furthermore, the syringe drivers are not designed to enable the patient to be ambulatory during infusion.

The Paragon™ infusion system is ideally suited to long term pain control. With a maximum capacity of 121mL, up to 10 days of pain control can be achieved from a single Disposable Infusion System Cartridge. This reserve capacity reduces the risk of patients experiencing breakthrough pain associated with changes of infusion. A variety of drugs can be used in the system including diamorphine or clonidine as well as certain combinations of drugs (stability data available upon request).

Because the manufacturer of the Paragon (I-Flow Corporation) has taken a systematic approach to the development of the Paragon system, a variety of PCA options is also available including a simple PCA button or more sophisticated basal/bolus options.

Central Homecare can provide these infusion systems pre-filled and delivered directly to your patients at home.

The British Pain Society – www.britishpainsociety.org

Help the Hospices - www.helpthehospices.org.uk