[Nausea and vomiting]

Abstract

Nausea and vomiting are the most distressing side effects reported by patients undergoing CDDP-based cancer chemotherapy. Dopamine receptor antagonists and corticosteroids are used as anti-emetics for chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting. Recently, a highly selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist are proved to demonstrate antiemetic activity. 5-HT3 receptor antagonists are developed such as Granisetron, Ondansetron, Ramosetron, Azasetron. For acute emesis, complete control of vomiting was achieved in 80% of patients receiving 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Though, it is reported to be only 20% effective for the complete control of delayed emesis. Psychiatric medications sometimes play a prominent role in the control of persisting emesis, particularly anticipatory or conditioned nausea. Nausea and vomiting are well controlled using various anti-emetics considering patient's condition and chemotherapy schedule.