Palonosetron to prevent nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy

About palonosetron

Palonosetron is an anti-sickness medicine, also known as an antiemetic. It is a serotonin receptor antagonist. It is prescribed to stop you from feeling sick (nauseated). It works by blocking the effect of a naturally produced chemical in your body, called serotonin. Serotonin is also referred to as 5HT₃.

Chemotherapy can cause the release of an increased amount of serotonin in your body. There are tiny areas in your small intestine and brain called 5HT₃ receptors. Serotonin acts on these receptors and causes you to feel sick. Palonosetron works by blocking serotonin from acting on the receptors, and this stops you from feeling sick or being sick (vomiting).

There is a brand of palonosetron which contains another anti-sickness medicine called netupitant - the brand is called Akynzeo®. Netupitant works by blocking the effect of another naturally produced chemical in your body, called substance P.

Before taking palonosetron

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine can only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking palonosetron it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not take this medicine if you are expecting, or breastfeeding, a baby.

• If you have had a problem with severe constipation.

• If you have been told you have an irregular heartbeat.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take palonosetron capsules

• Before you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about palonosetron, and it will also provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you could experience from taking it.

• Take the capsule exactly as your doctor tells you to. You will be asked to take a single dose of one Akynzeo® capsule (containing 500 micrograms of palonosetron), one hour before your chemo treatment starts.

• Swallow the capsule whole - it may help to take it with a drink of water. You can take the capsule either with or without food.

• Alternatively you may be given palonosetron as an injection during your chemotherapy appointment.

Getting the most from your treatment

• You will only be given palonosetron before you have chemotherapy. If you need anything for sickness after your treatment, you will be given a different medicine to take.

• Even if you do not feel like eating or drinking, try to sip water regularly to prevent you from becoming lacking in fluids (dehydrated). Also, rather than trying to eat three main meals a day, try eating small, simple but nourishing snacks, every few hours.

Can palonosetron cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the more common ones associated with palonosetron. The best place to find a full list of the side-effects which can be associated with your medicine, is from the manufacturer's printed information leaflet supplied with the medicine. Alternatively, you can find an example of a manufacturer's information leaflet in the reference section below. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following become troublesome.

Important: in a very few people, medicines like palonosetron can cause a problem called serotonin syndrome. Although this occurs only rarely, should you develop stiff or shaky muscles, a very high temperature (fever), a fast heartbeat, or become confused or agitated, you should call for medical assistance straightaway.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store palonosetron

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines