10 Chemotherapy Induced N/V Hsu Flashcards
What are the Emesis (N/V) risk factors?
Type of chemotherapy and dosage! Previous episodes of N/V! Age < 50 years. Female. History of motion sickness. High anxiety (anticipatory). History of low alcohol consumption (chronic alcoholism = decreased risk of emesis)
What is Acute Onset Emesis?
Occurs several minutes to hours after chemotherapy. Peaks in 5-6 hours and resolves within 24 hours
What is Delayed Onset Emesis?
Occurs > 24 hours after chemotherapy. Common drugs: Cisplatin > Carboplatin > “AC” Doxorubicin + Cyclophosphamide
What is Anticipatory Emesis?
Occurs prior to chemotherapy
What is Breakthrough Emesis?
Occurs while already on antiemetic therapy. Patients generally given additional medications PRN
What are the Emesis Neurotransmitters (NT)?
Primary NT pathways (Serotonin, Substance P/NK, Dopamine). Other NT associated with Nausea (Corticosteroids, Cannabinoid, Opiates, Histamine, Acetylcholine)
What are the 5HT3 Receptor Antagonists used?
Ondansetron (Zofran). Granisetron (Kytril, Sancuso). Dolasteron (Anzemet). Palonosetron (Aloxi)
Which 5HT3 Receptor Antagonist is used as a patch?
Granisetron (Sancuso)
Which 5HT3 Receptor Antagonist can only be given IV?
Palonosetron (Aloxi)
Which 5HT3 Receptor Antagonist has efficacy in delayed N/V?
Palonosetron (Aloxi) d/t its long half-life (~40 hrs)
What are the general class indications of 5HT3 Receptor Antagonists?
Prevention of chemotherapy, radiation, post-op N/V. Effective as mono and combination therapy. Most commonly used agent for mod-high emetogenic risk
What are 5HT3 Receptor Antagonists NOT effective for?
Breakthrough emesis
What are 5HT3 Receptor Antagonists LESS effective for?
Delayed N/V with the exception of Palonosetron (long half-life)
What are the ADRs associated with 5HT3 Receptor Antagonists?
HA (dose/rate dependent). QT prolongation. Constipation > diarrhea
What are the corticosteroids used?
Dexamethasone (Decadron) - preferred steroid for N/V
How is Dexamethasone (Decadron) administered?
PO or IV
What are the common ADRs associated with Dexamethasone (Decadron)?
GI stomach upset. CNS (insomnia, mood changes). Lab changes (increased glucose and WBC)
What is the MOA of NKI-Antagonist (Emend)?
Substance P/Neurokinin I (NKI) receptor antagonist - GI and CNS receptor activity. No dopamine or serotonin receptor affinity
What are the ADRs associated with NKI-Antagonists?
Hiccups! GI. LFT elevation. Emend regimen AE are similar to 5HT3 alone