[Olanzapine use in cancer patients for refractory vomiting].
Recent investigations suggest the efficacy of olanzapine in cancer patients with intractable vomiting or chemotherapy-induced nausea. Olanzapine,indicated for schizophrenia in Japan, has an affinity for multiple neurotransmitter receptors including dopaminergic, serotonergic, histaminergic, adrenergic and muscarinic receptors. This pharmacological activity thus has a potential role in the treatment of nausea and vomiting. In the present study, olanzapine was given to five cancer patients with refractory vomiting to standard medications. In 3 cases, olanzapine resolved vomiting completely and also improved anorexia, In 2 cases, vomiting was controlled for a limited period. No adverse effect was observed. These results suggest olanzapine is a useful agent for the management of both vomiting and anorexia.
Shakaihoken Kobe Central Hospital Palliative Care Unit.
Takuya
T
Shinjo
Masakuni
M
Okada
D000368:Aged; D000855:Anorexia / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000932:Antiemetics / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000077152:Olanzapine; D014840:Vomiting, Anticipatory / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control
D000932:Antiemetics; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D000077152:Olanzapine