dopamine antagonist - antiemetics

Question 1

Indications for dopamine antagonists?

Answer 1

prevent/treat postoperative nausea and vomiting, treat nausea and vomiting caused by palliative care/chemotherapy/radiotherapy, relieve nausea and vomiting

Question 2

Contraindications for dopamine antagonists?

Answer 2

bradycardia, CNS depression, comatose states, hypokalaemia, hypomagnesaemia, QT interval prolongation, gastrointestinal haemorrhage/perforation/obstruction

Question 3

Mechanism of action of dopamine antagonists?

Answer 3

competitive antagonism of dopamine at the CTZ and intestines, this slows gut motility and helps prevent the initiation of vomiting from the CTZ

Question 4

Common side effects of dopamine antagonists?

Answer 4

drowsiness, extrapyramidal effects, hyperprolactinaemia

Question 5

Monitoring requirements of dopamine antagonists

Answer 5

none

Question 6

Treatment cessation of dopamine antagonists

Answer 6

none

Question 7

Patient and carer advice for dopamine antagonists

Answer 7

drowsiness can affect performance in driving and skilled tasks, enhances effect of alcohol