[New aspects in the antiemetic therapy of cytostatic drug-induced vomiting].

The present intensification of cancer chemotherapy has resulted in increased toxicity. Nausea and vomiting are often severe and prolonged, rendering a patient unfit for further treatment. This review summarizes the current understanding of the physiology of vomiting and the pharmacology and efficacy of the antiemetics in clinical use. It also discusses new approaches with agents, such as cannobinoids, high-dosage metoclopramide, and high-dosage corticosteroids. The new agents are superior to standard antiemetic drugs as demonstrated in a number of trials.