Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting is one of the most common and distressing acute side effects of cancer treatment. It ranges from mild queasiness to severe, repeated vomiting.
Key points
- CINV occurs in up to 80 percent of patients receiving chemotherapy and can significantly impair quality of life.
- It is classified into acute, delayed, anticipatory, refractory and chronic forms, each with distinct timing and triggers.
Medicines listed for Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting
The listed product for this condition is Zofran, which contains ondansetron in 4mg and 8mg tablets. Ondansetron blocks serotonin receptors in the brain and gut, reducing the signal that triggers the vomiting reflex.
Further reading
- Nausea and Vomiting Related to Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) - NCI
- Anti-emetics in haemato-oncology patients with chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) (280) | Right Decisions - NHS Scotland
- Anti-emetic guidelines for the prophylaxis of Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy induced nausea and vomiting in ADULTS - Thames Valley Cancer Alliance