Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a debilitating side effect of cancer treatment, affecting up to 80% of chemotherapy patients. CINV can cause significant distress and affect a patient’s ability to carry out daily activities, leading to a decline in quality of life.
Fortunately, there have been significant advances in managing CINV in recent years, with more effective treatments becoming available. In this article, we will discuss the current treatments for CINV and the prospects for their management.
Understanding the Mechanisms of CINV
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a common side effect of cancer treatment that can significantly impact patients’ quality of life. Unfortunately, despite significant advancements in antiemetic therapy, the mechanisms behind CINV are yet to be fully understood.
CINV can be divided into two types based on the timing of onset: acute and delayed. Acute CINV typically occurs within the first 24 hours after chemotherapy, while delayed CINV can persist for up to 7 days post-treatment. Acute CINV is primarily caused by the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, histamine, and substance P, which stimulate the vomiting center in the brainstem.
On the other hand, delayed CINV is thought to result from the release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators that activate the neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor. The complexity of CINV mechanisms highlights the need for further research to develop more effective antiemetic therapies that can improve patient outcomes and reduce treatment-related morbidity.
Current Treatments for CINV
There are four classes of CINV treatment based on their mechanism of action: 5-hydroxytryptamine 3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonists, neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonists, corticosteroids, and benzodiazepines.
5-HT3 receptor antagonists such as Ondansetron HCL are the gold standard for preventing acute CINV. They work by blocking the binding of serotonin to the 5-HT3 receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the release of serotonin and activation of the vomiting center. Other examples of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists include granisetron and palonosetron.
NK1 receptor antagonists such as aprepitant and rolapitant are effective in preventing both acute and delayed CINV. They work by blocking the binding of substance P to the NK1 receptors in the brain, reducing the activation of the vomiting center. NK1 receptor antagonists are often combined with a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist and corticosteroids for maximum efficacy.
Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone are effective in preventing both acute and delayed CINV. They work by reducing inflammation and the release of cytokines that contribute to delayed CINV. They are often used with other antiemetic agents, such as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and NK1 receptor antagonists.
Benzodiazepines such as lorazepam are effective in managing anxiety and anticipatory nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. They work by reducing anxiety and the release of catecholamines that contribute to these symptoms.
Future Prospects for Managing CINV
Despite the availability of effective treatments, CINV remains a significant challenge for cancer patients. Therefore, there is a need for further research to understand the underlying mechanisms of CINV and to develop new and more effective treatments.
One area of research is the development of drugs that target multiple pathways involved in CINV, such as the combination of NK1 receptor antagonists, 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, and dexamethasone. Another area of research is the development of biomarkers that can predict which patients are at a higher risk of developing CINV, allowing for personalized treatment approaches.
Conclusion
CINV remains a significant symptom among cancer patients, affecting their quality of life and making them feel more ill. The current treatments are effective, but there is a need for more effective and personalized treatments for individual patients. Scientists are hopeful that ongoing research in this area will lead to better management of CINV and improve the quality of life of cancer patients.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at BlueFashion. She has been steering the website's content and editorial direction since 2013. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra's expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
