Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV)

Nutrition in cancer patients

The nutritional needs of a cancer patient depend on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the symptoms experienced, the type and frequency of the cancer treatment being used and the side effects associated with that treatment, and the effect of the specific cancer on food and nutrient ingestion, tolerance, and utilisation. For many cancer patients, managing nutritional needs while living with advanced cancer becomes a particular challenge that needs to be overcome.

For more information, see Nutrition in Cancer Patients.

Nausea and vomiting (emesis)

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation of wanting to vomit. It generally precedes vomiting, but can occur by itself. Retching is a strong involuntary effort to vomit, and usually follows nausea. Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of the contents of the gastrointestinal system out through the mouth. From an evolutionary perspective, it is thought to have evolved as a defense mechanism of the body.

For more information, see Nausea and Vomiting (Emesis).

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common and debilitating side effects of chemotherapy. Despite recent advances in managing nausea and vomiting in this setting, these two symptoms remain amongst the most feared side effects of chemotherapy. CINV can be classified as acute, delayed or anticipatory based on the timing and type of chemotherapy drugs involved.

For more information, see Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV).

5-HT₃ receptor antagonists (serotonin blockers)

5-hydroxytryptamine receptor antagonists (5-HT₃ RAs) are a group of drugs which are used to control nausea and vomiting. They get their name through their ability to block 5-hydroxytryptamine (also known as serotonin) from activating nerves that bring about the vomiting reflex. There are currently five serotonin blockers marketed in Australia for treating or preventing CINV.

For more information, see 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists (Serotonin Blockers).

Managing nausea and vomiting with complementary therapies

Anti-emetic drugs are accepted as the usual treatment, but many individuals are also interested in using complementary or alternative therapies to manage nausea and vomiting. These include dietary modifications, herbal remedies, cognitive and behavioural approaches and touch therapies.

For more information, see Managing Nausea and Vomiting with Complementary Therapies.