Antiemetics in children receiving chemotherapy.
Only a few studies have been carried out in children on the prevention of chemotherapy-induced acute emesis. 5-HT3 antagonists have been shown to be more efficacious and less toxic than metoclopramide, phenothiazines and cannabinoids. The optimal dose and scheduling of the 5-HT3 antagonists has not been identified. Combinations of a 5-HT3 antagonist and dexamethasone show increased efficacy with respect to 5-HT3 antagonists alone. All pediatric patients receiving chemotherapy of high or moderate emetogenic potential should receive a combination of a 5-HT3 antagonist and dexamethasone to prevent acute emesis. No studies have specifically evaluated antiemetic drugs in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced delayed and anticipatory emesis in children.
Roila
Fausto
F
Medical Oncology Division, Policlinico Hospital, 06122 Perugia, Italy. roila.fausto@libero.it
Feyer
Petra
P
Maranzano
Ernesto
E
Olver
Ian
I
Clark-Snow
Rebecca
R
Warr
David
D
Molassiotis
Alexander
A
Molassiotos
Alexander
A
D000932:Antiemetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002648:Child; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D058831:Serotonin 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists; D014839:Vomiting / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000932:Antiemetics; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D058831:Serotonin 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists; D003907:Dexamethasone