Cisplatinum based chemotherapy: role of the antiserotoninergic ondansetron in prevention of emesis.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in chemotherapy-induced emesis and ondansetron is a new drug endowed with selective antagonism against the 5HT3 receptors. Phase I-II studies have demonstrated its activity against acute emesis after single-dose cisplatin, reporting particularly low toxicity; in comparative studies with high-dose metoclopramide, it has been proved to be more effective and completely devoid of extrapyramidal side effects. Ondansetron has shown its activity and safety also in multiple-day cisplatin regimens. Its antiemetic efficacy is improved by the addition of dexamethasone. Preliminary data suggest its role also when used in single-dose administration. Its activity in the delayed phase of cisplatin emesis needs to be further explored.
Medical Oncology Department, S. Carlo Borromeo Hospital, Milan, Italy.
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MC
Locatelli
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A
D'Antona
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Luporini
D002945:Cisplatin / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017321:Clinical Trials, Phase I as Topic; D017322:Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D017294:Ondansetron / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D014839:Vomiting / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000517:prevention & control*
D017294:Ondansetron; D003907:Dexamethasone; D002945:Cisplatin