Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: optimizing prevention and management

• Published in: American health & drug benefits Vol. 5; no. 4; pp. 232 - 240
• Main Authors: Rao, Kamakshi V, Faso, Aimee
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Engage Healthcare Communications, LLC 01.07.2012
• Subjects: Clinical
• ISSN: 1942-2962; 1942-2970

Nausea and vomiting are serious side effects of cancer chemotherapy that can cause significant negative impacts on patients' quality of life and on their ability to tolerate and comply with therapy. Despite advances in the prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), these side effects remain among the most distressing for patients. To discuss CINV and the current pharmacologic approaches to its management. This article outlines the mechanism of CINV followed by a review of current approaches to pharmacologic therapy and current practice guidelines from national cancer organizations. This information will help providers and payers understand the optimal management of patients with CINV including practical considerations and value-based decision-making that considers cost issues. Numerous preventive and treatment options are available to manage CINV Addressing antiemetic regimens requires ongoing patient evaluation to determine the best approach for each individual patient.