Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common condition, often associated with a high level of symptoms. In this review, several palliative treatments for symptomatic MPE are summarised, including repeated thoracentesis, pleurodesis and insertion of indwelling pleural catheters. Choice of treatment depends on patient symptoms, life expectancy, pleural fluid production, expected effect of oncological treatment, whether trapped lung is suspected or not, and patient preferences. Treatment should be discussed with a pulmonary specialist with knowledge of pleural diseases.