Coughs that do not respond to warm fluids and steam may be controlled with the use of codeine or morphine. Morphine may provide relief of intractable shortness of breath in patients with terminal intrathoracic tumour, recognizing that it may shorten survival in the process of relieving suffering. Home oxygen supplied by tank or concentrator should be provided for patients requiring it for late stage cancer.

Keep in mind that shortness of breath due to effusions, obstruction, infection, emboli or other treatable situations should be treated appropriately.