The purpose of using a medication dispenser is to administer the medication to the patient in a regular manner and in sufficient amounts in situations where taking the medication by mouth is not possible or the benefits of the medicine when delivered via the pump are deemed to be greater. Such situations may include reduced ability to swallow, nausea, or highly severe pain.
Does starting a medication dispenser (pain pump) mean that I’m dying?
Starting a pain pump, or administering medication as an infusion into the tissue beneath the skin or into a vein, does not mean that you are dying.
Updated 12.3.2026