High versus low dose granisetron, a selective 5HT₃ antagonist, for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

Summary

Fifty six patients, with histologically confirmed cancer, who received highly emetogenic chemotherapy, were entered on a randomized double blind, low versus high dose, study of granisetron, a 5HT₃ receptor antagonist. A single dose of intravenous granisetron protected the majority of patients from nausea and vomiting, 160 μg/kg was more effective than 40 μg/kg with no more side effects. Additional doses of granisetron conferred added benefit to patients who experienced breakthrough symptoms. Granisetron at a dose range of 40–240 μg/kg over a 24 hour period was well tolerated with the only side effect being mild headache.