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The clinical use of ondansetron
Author(s) -
Currow David C,
StuartHarris Robin C,
Noble Pamela D
Publication year - 1995
Publication title -
medical journal of australia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.904
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1326-5377
pISSN - 0025-729X
DOI - 10.5694/j.1326-5377.1995.tb138480.x
Subject(s) - ondansetron , antiemetic , nausea , medicine , vomiting , anesthesia , metoclopramide , chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting , constipation , dosing , adverse effect , chemotherapy , intensive care medicine , surgery
Objective To establish guidelines for use of ondansetron. Data sources MEDLINE computer search (to July 1993) and information from the manufacturer. Data extraction We circulated a position paper based on our literature review for comment by clinicians and directors of pharmacy in major teaching hospitals in New South Wales who had an interest in ondansetron. Data synthesis Ondansetron is effective in the control of nausea and vomiting occurring 24‐48 hours after highly emetogenic chemotherapy and after radiotherapy. There are no data to support its use in delayed emesis. Combination with dexamethasone may improve emetic control. The most commonly reported adverse effects are headache and constipation. Optimal dose, frequency of dosing and route of administration have not been established. The cost for each inpatient treated successfully is about 3% more than conventional antiemetic therapy. Conclusions Ondansetron shows clinical benefit in the management of acute nausea and vomiting in patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy, those who have responded poorly to other antiemetics after moderately emetogenic chemotherapy, those who have intolerable side effects with conventional antiemetic agents and those receiving radiotherapy to the upper abdomen. It is also marketed for the prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting.