Antiemetics (Antinausea) Agents

Question 1

Scopolamine

Answer 1

Type: Anticholingerics

Action: Binds to and blocks acetylcholine so nauseaous stimuli is not sent to brain

S/E: drowiness, dry secretions, and prevention of smooth muscle spasms

Question 2

Compazine

Answer 2

Type: anti-dopaminergics

Action: blocks dopamine receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone

Calms the CNS and decreases anxiety and tension

Question 3

Ondansteron (Zofran)

Answer 3

Type: serotonin blockers

Action: Blocks serotonin receptors in the GI track, CTZ, VC

Used for chemo-induced N/V and morning sickness for pregnant women

Question 4

Antiemetics (antinausea) agents work in the two centers of the brain:

Answer 4

1. Vomitting center (VC)
2. Chemoreceptor Trigger Zone (CTZ)

Question 5

Antiemetics/antinausea agents trigger

Answer 5

• serotonin
• acetylcholine
• dopamine