MECHANISMS
CINV: pathophysiology
and mechanisms
The pathophysiology of chemotherapy-induced nausea and
vomiting is complex and has many contributing pathways
Sandra Melville
MSc FRPharmS FFRPS
Lead Pharmacist, Oncology and
Acute Care, Lorn & Islands Hospital,
Oban, UK
Despite recent advances in
the management of nausea
and vomiting, it remains one of
the most dreaded side effects of
chemotherapy. 1,2 When poorly
controlled, it can affect patients’
quality of life and adversely impact
their ability to tolerate
chemotherapy. With the recent
trend towards oral chemotherapy
regimens and self-administration
at home, the scope for increased
non-adherence due to nausea and
vomiting is increasingly relevant.
In order to minimise this
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