Management of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are among the most distressing adverse effects of cancer chemotherapy. They can lead to both physical and psychological complications if uncontrolled. The exact mechanism for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting is not known; it is thought to occur through numerous neuronal pathways acting on different sites. Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting are broken down into 3 phases: acute, delayed, and anticipatory. The incidence of each phase depends largely on the chemotherapy agent used and is primarily treated with different antiemetic agents. Pharmacists can assist in optimizing antiemetic use by selecting appropriate antiemetics based on the emetogenicity of the cancer treatment and helping to individualize therapy to each patient’s specific needs.