Emesis - Pharmacologic Treatment

Question 1

Which antihistamines (anticholinergics) are used in the treatment of emesis?

Answer 1

• Diphenhydramine
• Hydroxyzine
• Trimethobenzamide
• Promethazine (powerful antihistamine and anticholinergic)

Question 2

Which dopamine antagonists are used in the treatment of emesis?

Answer 2

• Phenothiazines (most widely prescribed antiemetics): Prochlorperazine (Compazine) (D2 blocker), Thiethylperazine
• Butyrophenones
• Benzamides (blocks D2 and serotonin receptors at high doses): Metoclopramide

Question 3

Which serotonin antagonists (5HT-3) are used in the treatment of emesis?

Answer 3

The Setrons. For moderate and highly emetogenic chemotherapy

Question 4

Which powerful corticosteroid without minerocorticoid activity is used in the treatment of emesis?

Answer 4

Dexamethasone

Question 5

Which class of drugs significantly enhances the efficacy of dopamine and 5HT-3 antagonists in the treatment of emesis?

Answer 5

Corticosteroids

Question 6

Which benzodiazepines are used in treatment of emesis?

Answer 6

Lorazepam (Ativan)

Question 7

Which are the drugs of choice for anticipatory nausea and vomiting and at the same time decrease anxiety?

Answer 7

Benzodiazepines

Question 8

Which neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists are used in the treatment of emesis

Answer 8

• Aprepitant (oral)
• Fosaprepitant (IV)

Usually combined with a 5HT-3 receptor antagonist and Dexamethasone