PALONOSETRON

Background and Date of Approval

Palonosetron is an antiemetic drug that belongs to the category of medicines known as alkylating agents. It was approved by the FDA in July 2003 to treat Chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting.

Uses

Palonosetron is an anti-emetic agent used to treat Postoperative nausea & vomiting. It is also used in the treatment of Chemotherapy induced nausea & vomiting.

How is it administered?

Palonosetron is a prescription drug available only in tablet and injection form. The medicine will be administered to you by a qualified healthcare professional in a hospital setting. This injection will be given intravenously into a vein in your arm or hand. Do not self-administer this medicine. The dose of the injection will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors. Palonosetron Hydrochloride Injection is usually given about 30 minutes before you receive your anti-cancer medicine (chemotherapy) or right before anaesthesia for surgery. If you are taking palonosetron as an oral tablet, it should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet before swallowing it.

Side Effects

The common side effects of Palonosetron are headache, fatigue, dizziness, and abdominal pain. Other serious side effects include hives, swollen face, breathing trouble, and chest pain. Inform your physician if you face any of the symptoms.

Warnings

Palonosetron is not recommended in patients who have hypersensitivity reactions. This medicine may cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

Precautions

Palonosetron may cause QT prolongation, which is a condition that can cause an irregular heartbeat. This is more likely to occur in people who have a history of heart problems. If you have a history of heart problems, tell your doctor right away. Inform your physician if you have any liver-related disease, lung disease, blood/bleeding problems, or infection and about all the other prescribed, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal medications you take. It is not known whether palonosetron is safe for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking palonosetron. This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. It is unsafe to drive vehicles or operate heavy machinery after taking Palonosetron Injection because Palonosetron contains a small amount of alcohol which may cause dizziness and impair your concentration.

Word of Advice

Talk to your physician if you have a history of repeated constipation, blockage in the bowel, heart problems, or imbalance of certain minerals (such as potassium and magnesium) in your blood before taking a Palonosetron Injection. Inform your doctor or nurse if you are taking any medicines that affect your heartbeat because they could cause a heartbeat problem when taken with Palonosetron solution for injection. Store Palonosetron in the original package at room temperature (25°C). Do not freeze. Keep it out of reach from children and pets. It is important to get the dose at the scheduled time. If you missed the schedule, contact your doctor and reschedule the dose

References

Fresenius kabi, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on Dec 2018] [Accessed on 01st March 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/208109s001lbl.pdf Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Treatment of disorders of bowel motility and water flux, 12th edition, 2011, 1341. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antiemetic, prokinetic and digestant drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 669.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the possible side effects of Palonosetron?

It can cause serious allergic reactions like hives, swollen face, breathing trouble and chest pain. Some common side effects include headache and constipation.

When should you take the Palonosetron?

Palonosetron can be taken with or without food with a glass full of water. The first dose of this drug is typically taken before the start of your surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment.

How does a palonosetron work?

Palonosetron works by blocking the action of a chemical called serotonin, which is involved in causing nausea and vomiting.

Who should not take a palonosetron?

Palonosetron should not be taken by individuals who are allergic to it or its ingredients.

What forms does palonosetron come in?

Palonosetron is available in the form of an injection or an oral tablet.

Available Brands 8

Written By: P. Thirumal Reddy

Reviewed By: Dr. Tejashwin Adiga