Antiemetic efficacy of an oral suspension of granisetron plus dexamethasone and influence of quality of life on risk for nausea and vomiting.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the antiemetic efficacy of an oral suspension of granisetron/dexamethasone in patients receiving chemotherapy and to determine whether quality-of-life parameters influence the risk for postchemotherapy nausea and vomiting (PCNV).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In an open monocentric study, an oral suspension containing 2 mg granisetron and 16 mg (4 mg for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy) dexamethasone was administered to 43 chemotherapy-naive patients before highly (n = 16) or moderately (n = 27) emetogenic chemotherapy and on the 3 subsequent days (2 for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy). Emetic episodes were recorded and quality of life was assessed prior to each cycle with a questionnaire based on EORTC QLQ-30.

RESULTS

In the group undergoing highly (moderately) emetogenic chemotherapy, complete control of acute vomiting was achieved in 60-72.7% (92.6-95.0%), and complete control of delayed vomiting in 37.5-40.0% (75.0-92.2%), of patients within the first 3 (5) cycles. The following quality-of-life parameters were significantly associated with PCNV: tiredness (RR = 1.3, p < 0.05), pain (RR = 1.5), impairment of daily life by pain (RR = 1.7), sensation of abdominal pressure and fullness (RR = 2.5), impairment of social activities (RR = 2.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Once-daily oral administration of a suspension of granisetron/dexamethasone is an active prophylaxis of nausea and vomiting and compares favorably with data reported on intravenous administration. Quality-of-life parameters assessed pre-treatment could help to identify patients at high risk for nausea and vomiting so that antiemetic therapy can be tailored to individual patient risk.