Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting : a comparison between Ondansetron Hydrochloride and Granisetron Hydrochloride.

Abstract

Topic overview This study will evaluate the anti-emetic efficiency of Ondansetron and Granisetron Hydrochloride drugs. The main goal of the study is to find the best drug to minimize the emesis effects of chemotherapy as cancer treatment for adult patients. Research question In adult cancer patients who are receiving chemotherapy, is Ondansetron Hydrochloride more effective than Granisetron Hydrochloride in reducing chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting? PICO elements The population IS adult patients with cancer who received Ondansetron Hydrochloride anti-emetic drug (Intervention) compared with patients who were given Granisetron Hydrochloride anti-emetic drug (Comparison). The Outcome is to reduce the effect of chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting on patients. Search activity outcome A total of nineteen related studies were found. The inclusion and exclusion criteria The studies were random controlled trials, retrospective studies, systematic reviews and meta-analysis with a target population age of sixteen years and over. These had chemotherapy as part of cancer treatment and were given Ondansetron and Granisetron as anti-emetic treatment to prevent chemotherapy emesis. All the studies were carried out in English language from January 1986 to July 2011 with a population of more than 32 participants receiving each drug. Appraisal method To appraise the research studies, an un-modified Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool (CASP) was used. Main result Ondansetron and Granisetron drugs have the same anti -emetic effect in patients who are receiving chemotherapy as cancer treatment. Recommendations A more knowledgeable health care team is needed to deliver better anti-emetic care to patients being treated for cancer. Moreover, in light of this study those who are responsible for the Government drug formulary may need to consider the inclusion of Granisetron Hydrochloride anti-emetic drug in the national drug formulary list. Implications Ondansetron and Granisetron are both excellent anti-emetic drugs; however, both drugs still failed to offer complete chemotherapy emesis protection. Therefore, the choice between the two anti-emetic drugs may rely on the local chemotherapy anti-emetic protocol, drug availability, route of administration and price tag.