“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and they can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Fortunately, there are many strategies that can be used to manage these symptoms.
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)
CINV can occur within minutes to hours of chemotherapy and can last for several days. There are two types of CINV: acute and delayed.
Acute CINV: Acute CINV occurs within the first 24 hours of chemotherapy and is more likely to occur with certain chemotherapy drugs, such as cisplatin. Antiemetic medications, such as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and corticosteroids, can be used to prevent and treat acute CINV.
Delayed CINV: Delayed CINV occurs more than 24 hours after chemotherapy and can last for up to five to seven days. Delayed CINV is more likely to occur with certain chemotherapy drugs, such as anthracyclines. Neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists, such as aprepitant, can be used to prevent and treat delayed CINV.
Radiation-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV)
RINV can occur within minutes to hours of radiation therapy and can last for several days. It is more likely to occur when the radiation field includes the upper abdomen or when high doses of radiation are used.
Anti-nausea medications, such as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, can be used to prevent and treat RINV. In some cases, corticosteroids or olanzapine may also be used.
Non-pharmacologic interventions
In addition to medication, there are several non-pharmacologic interventions that can help manage nausea and vomiting associated with cancer treatment. These include:
Conclusion
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but they can be effectively managed with the use of medication and non-pharmacologic interventions. It is important for patients to communicate with their healthcare providers about any symptoms they are experiencing so that appropriate interventions can be prescribed. By effectively managing nausea and vomiting, patients can improve their quality of life and better tolerate cancer treatment.