TROPISETRONE

Tropisetron is a potent and selective serotonin receptor antagonist. It competitively blocks serotonin peripherally on vagal nerve terminal and centrally in the chemoreceptor trigger zone.

Indications

Nausea and vomiting.

Dosage

Adult: IV Prophylaxis of cytotoxic-induced nausea and vomiting 5 mg as single dose just before chemotherapy, then 5 mg/day for 5 days via PO.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity. Pregnancy, lactation.

Special Precautions

Uncontrolled hypertension. Cardiac rhythm or conduction disturbances. Children

Side Effects

Headache, dizziness, fatigue; GI disturbances (e.g. abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation); syncope; hypersensitivity reactions; visual hallucinations, increase in BP, prolongation of QT interval. Can cause cardiac arrest.

Drug Interactions

Increased risk of arrhythmias with drugs that may prolong QT interval e.g. antiarrhythmics, b-blockers. Decreased analgesic effects of tramadol and paracetamol.