Antiemetic Drugs Can Be Overprescribed To Chemotherapy Patients

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Ayako Okuyama, RN, PHN, MW, PhD
Center for Cancer Control and Information Services
National Cancer Center, Japan

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Response: Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a major concern for chemotherapy patients. Despite widespread concern, not all chemotherapeutic drugs cause severe CINV. Our study illustrated that the potential for overuse of prophylactic antiemetics for chemotherapy with minimal and low emetic risks according to the antiemetic guidelines.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: Prescribing unnecessary antiemetic drugs not only exposes patients to the risk for adverse effects but also produces an economic burden on the patients and the society. Judicial use of these drugs is important.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Response: The reasons for and consequences of antiemetic overuse is important to improve the quality of care.

MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Response: We hope this research will give a chance to reconsider chemotherapy regimen.

MedicalResearch.com: Thank you for your contribution to the MedicalResearch.com community.

Citation:

Okuyama A, Nakamura F, Higashi T. Prescription of Prophylactic Antiemetic Drugs for Patients Receiving Chemotherapy With Minimal and Low Emetic Risk. JAMA Oncol. Published online November 03, 2016. doi:10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.4096

Note: Content is Not intended as medical advice. Please consult your health care provider regarding your specific medical condition and questions.

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Last Updated on November 4, 2016 by Marie Benz MD FAAD