Aloxi: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

A second-generation serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in adults and children

Rx ATC: A04AA05 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonist
Active Ingredient
Palonosetron (as hydrochloride)
Available Forms
Solution for injection
Strength
250 micrograms / 5 mL
Manufacturer
Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Aloxi (palonosetron) is a second-generation serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. Unlike first-generation 5-HT3 antagonists such as ondansetron, palonosetron has a significantly longer half-life of approximately 40 hours, allowing a single intravenous dose to provide sustained protection against both acute and delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). It is approved for use in adults, adolescents, and children over one month of age. Aloxi is administered by healthcare professionals in hospital or clinic settings, typically 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy.

Quick Facts: Aloxi

Active Ingredient
Palonosetron
Drug Class
5-HT3 Antagonist
ATC Code
A04AA05
Common Uses
Prevent CINV
Available Forms
IV Injection
Prescription Status
Rx Only

Key Takeaways

  • Aloxi (palonosetron) is a second-generation 5-HT3 receptor antagonist with a uniquely long half-life of ~40 hours, providing extended protection against chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
  • A single intravenous dose of 250 micrograms is given 30 minutes before chemotherapy, with no need for repeat dosing during the same chemotherapy cycle.
  • It is approved for adults, adolescents, and children over 1 month of age; pediatric dosing is weight-based (maximum 1,500 micrograms).
  • Common side effects include headache, constipation, and dizziness; serious allergic reactions are very rare.
  • Use caution with serotonergic drugs (SSRIs, SNRIs) due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, and with QT-prolonging medications due to potential cardiac effects.

What Is Aloxi and What Is It Used For?

Quick Answer: Aloxi (palonosetron) is a prescription antiemetic medication that prevents nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. It works by blocking serotonin (5-HT3) receptors and is given as a single intravenous injection before chemotherapy.

Aloxi contains the active substance palonosetron, a potent and highly selective serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist. It belongs to a class of medications known as antiemetics, which are specifically designed to prevent nausea and vomiting. Aloxi is classified as a second-generation 5-HT3 antagonist, distinguishing it from older drugs in the same class such as ondansetron, granisetron, and dolasetron.

The primary indication for Aloxi is the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in both adults and pediatric patients (children and adolescents aged 1 month to 17 years). CINV is one of the most distressing and common side effects experienced by cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and it can significantly impair quality of life, nutritional status, and treatment compliance. Palonosetron is effective against both acute CINV (occurring within the first 24 hours after chemotherapy) and delayed CINV (occurring 24 to 120 hours after chemotherapy).

Aloxi works by blocking the action of serotonin (also called 5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT), a chemical messenger in the body. During chemotherapy, cytotoxic drugs damage the enterochromaffin cells lining the gastrointestinal tract, causing a massive release of serotonin. This serotonin activates 5-HT3 receptors on vagal afferent nerve fibers in the gut and in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) of the brain, triggering the vomiting reflex. By selectively binding to and blocking these 5-HT3 receptors, palonosetron interrupts this signaling cascade and prevents nausea and vomiting from occurring.

What makes palonosetron unique among 5-HT3 antagonists is its exceptionally long elimination half-life of approximately 40 hours, compared to roughly 3–9 hours for first-generation agents. This extended duration of action means that a single dose given before chemotherapy provides sustained antiemetic protection over multiple days, covering both the acute and delayed phases of CINV without the need for repeated dosing. Additionally, palonosetron demonstrates approximately 30-fold greater binding affinity for the 5-HT3 receptor compared to ondansetron, and it exhibits a unique receptor-binding mechanism that triggers receptor internalization, further prolonging its antiemetic effect.

Clinical Context

International guidelines from MASCC/ESMO and NCCN recommend palonosetron as the preferred 5-HT3 receptor antagonist for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC) regimens. For highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC), it is typically used in combination with a corticosteroid (dexamethasone) and an NK1 receptor antagonist as part of a triple or quadruple antiemetic regimen.

What Should You Know Before Receiving Aloxi?

Quick Answer: Do not receive Aloxi if you are allergic to palonosetron or any of its ingredients. Inform your doctor about any history of bowel obstruction, constipation, heart problems, or electrolyte imbalances, and disclose all medications you are currently taking.

Contraindications

Aloxi must not be administered to patients who have a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to palonosetron or to any of the excipients contained in the formulation. Allergic reactions, though very rare, can manifest as swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, collapse, or itchy raised hives (urticaria). If you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to any 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, inform your doctor before receiving Aloxi.

There are no other absolute contraindications for palonosetron. However, several clinical situations require careful consideration and discussion with your healthcare provider before administration.

Warnings and Precautions

Before receiving Aloxi, it is important to tell your doctor or nurse if any of the following conditions apply to you:

  • Bowel obstruction or chronic constipation: Palonosetron can slow gastrointestinal transit and worsen constipation. Patients with a history of intestinal obstruction, subacute bowel obstruction, or recurrent severe constipation should be monitored carefully. Post-marketing reports have included cases of constipation requiring hospitalization.
  • Heart problems or family history of cardiac conduction disorders: Palonosetron may cause changes in heart rhythm, including prolongation of the QT interval on electrocardiogram (ECG). While clinically significant QT prolongation is uncommon, patients with pre-existing cardiac disease, congenital long QT syndrome, or a family history of sudden cardiac death should be closely monitored. Your doctor may want to perform an ECG before and after administration.
  • Electrolyte imbalances: Untreated low levels of potassium (hypokalemia) or magnesium (hypomagnesemia) in the blood can increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias when palonosetron is used. These electrolyte abnormalities are common in cancer patients, particularly those experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, or receiving certain chemotherapy agents. Your doctor should check and correct any electrolyte imbalances before administering Aloxi.
Serotonin Syndrome Risk

When palonosetron is used concurrently with serotonergic medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, triptans, tramadol, fentanyl, lithium), there is a potential risk of serotonin syndrome — a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms include agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, elevated body temperature, muscle rigidity, tremor, and sweating. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Aloxi should not be used during pregnancy unless your doctor determines it is absolutely necessary. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of palonosetron in pregnant women. Animal reproduction studies have not demonstrated teratogenic effects, but the potential risk to the human fetus is unknown. If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, inform your healthcare provider before receiving this medication.

Breastfeeding: It is not known whether palonosetron or its metabolites are excreted in human breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in breast milk and because of the potential for adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made to either discontinue breastfeeding or avoid Aloxi, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Consult your doctor or nurse before receiving Aloxi if you are breastfeeding.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Aloxi may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or fatigue in some patients. If you experience any of these effects after receiving this medication, you should not drive a vehicle, operate heavy machinery, or engage in other activities that require alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. These effects are typically transient and resolve within 24–48 hours.

Sodium Content

Aloxi solution for injection contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per vial, meaning it is essentially sodium-free. This is relevant for patients on a controlled sodium diet.

How Does Aloxi Interact with Other Drugs?

Quick Answer: Aloxi can interact with serotonergic medications (SSRIs, SNRIs) increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome, and with QT-prolonging drugs increasing the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. Always tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.

Drug interactions are an important consideration when receiving Aloxi, particularly in cancer patients who are often taking multiple medications simultaneously. Palonosetron is primarily metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP2D6, with minor contributions from CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. While significant pharmacokinetic interactions are uncommon, several pharmacodynamic interactions warrant careful clinical attention.

Major Interactions

The most clinically significant interactions involve two categories of drugs: serotonergic agents and QT-prolonging medications.

Serotonergic drugs: Concurrent use of palonosetron with serotonergic medications can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonergic activity in the central nervous system. This interaction is particularly relevant for cancer patients being treated for comorbid depression or anxiety. The following drug classes are of primary concern:

  • SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors): fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, citalopram, and escitalopram
  • SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors): venlafaxine and duloxetine
  • MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors): phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline
  • Triptans (used for migraine): sumatriptan, rizatriptan, zolmitriptan
  • Other serotonergic agents: tramadol, fentanyl, lithium, tryptophan, methylene blue

QT-prolonging drugs: Because palonosetron has the potential to affect cardiac repolarization and prolong the QT interval, concurrent use with other QT-prolonging medications increases the risk of potentially dangerous heart rhythm disturbances, including torsades de pointes.

Key Drug Interactions with Aloxi (Palonosetron)
Interacting Drug Category Risk Recommendation
SSRIs (fluoxetine, sertraline, etc.) Antidepressant Serotonin syndrome Use with caution; monitor for symptoms
SNRIs (venlafaxine, duloxetine) Antidepressant Serotonin syndrome Use with caution; monitor closely
Amiodarone Antiarrhythmic QT prolongation Avoid combination if possible; ECG monitoring
Erythromycin Antibiotic QT prolongation ECG monitoring recommended
Moxifloxacin Antibiotic QT prolongation ECG monitoring recommended
Haloperidol Antipsychotic QT prolongation Avoid combination if possible; ECG monitoring
Domperidone Antiemetic / Prokinetic QT prolongation Avoid concurrent use
Chlorpromazine Antipsychotic QT prolongation ECG monitoring recommended
Quetiapine Antipsychotic QT prolongation ECG monitoring recommended
Nicardipine / Quinidine Cardiovascular QT prolongation ECG monitoring recommended

Minor Interactions

Palonosetron is metabolized partially by CYP2D6. Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors (such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine) may theoretically increase plasma concentrations of palonosetron, although clinical studies have not shown this to be clinically significant. Similarly, CYP3A4 inducers or inhibitors have not demonstrated meaningful changes in palonosetron pharmacokinetics in clinical studies.

Palonosetron does not appear to inhibit or induce cytochrome P450 enzymes at clinically relevant concentrations, making pharmacokinetic interactions with other chemotherapy drugs unlikely. Studies have confirmed that palonosetron does not affect the pharmacokinetics of co-administered cytotoxic agents.

Co-administration with corticosteroids (particularly dexamethasone) and NK1 receptor antagonists (such as aprepitant or fosaprepitant) is both safe and recommended in clinical guidelines, as these combinations provide superior antiemetic protection compared to any single agent alone.

What Is the Correct Dosage of Aloxi?

Quick Answer: Adults receive a single 250 microgram intravenous injection approximately 30 minutes before chemotherapy. Children receive a weight-based dose (20 mcg/kg, maximum 1,500 mcg) given as a 15-minute intravenous infusion.

Aloxi is typically administered by a doctor, nurse, or other qualified healthcare professional in a clinical setting such as a hospital chemotherapy unit or outpatient infusion center. The medication is given before each chemotherapy cycle, not as a continuous daily treatment. Patients should not receive Aloxi on the days following chemotherapy unless they are about to start another round of chemotherapy.

Adults

Standard Adult Dose

The recommended dose is 250 micrograms of palonosetron, administered as a single intravenous bolus injection over 30 seconds, approximately 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy. This is equivalent to one full 5 mL vial of Aloxi solution for injection.

No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients or for patients with renal or hepatic impairment, as pharmacokinetic studies have not demonstrated clinically significant differences in drug exposure in these populations.

Children and Adolescents (1 month to 17 years)

Pediatric Dose

The recommended dose is 20 micrograms per kilogram of body weight (mcg/kg), with a maximum single dose of 1,500 micrograms. The dose is administered as an intravenous infusion over 15 minutes, starting approximately 30 minutes before the initiation of chemotherapy.

The treating physician will calculate the appropriate dose based on the child's current body weight. The safety and efficacy of palonosetron have not been established in infants under 1 month of age.

Aloxi Dosage Summary by Patient Group
Patient Group Dose Route Administration
Adults (18+ years) 250 mcg (fixed dose) IV bolus over 30 seconds 30 min before chemotherapy
Children (1 month – 17 years) 20 mcg/kg (max 1,500 mcg) IV infusion over 15 minutes 30 min before chemotherapy
Elderly patients 250 mcg (no adjustment) IV bolus over 30 seconds 30 min before chemotherapy
Renal impairment 250 mcg (no adjustment) IV bolus over 30 seconds No dose modification needed
Hepatic impairment 250 mcg (no adjustment) IV bolus over 30 seconds No dose modification needed

Missed Dose

Because Aloxi is administered by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting immediately before chemotherapy, the issue of a missed dose does not typically arise. The drug is given as a single dose prior to each chemotherapy cycle. If for any reason palonosetron is not administered before a chemotherapy session, the decision on whether and when to administer it should be made by the treating physician based on individual clinical circumstances.

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for palonosetron overdose. In clinical trials, doses up to 90 micrograms per kilogram (approximately 6 mg total dose) were administered without significant additional toxicity compared to the standard dose. In the event of an overdose, treatment should be supportive with appropriate monitoring of vital signs, cardiac rhythm, and fluid and electrolyte status. Palonosetron is not effectively removed by dialysis due to its large volume of distribution.

Important Dosing Information

Do not receive Aloxi in the days immediately following chemotherapy unless a new chemotherapy cycle is about to begin. Repeated dosing within a 7-day period has not been shown to improve efficacy and is not recommended. Always inform your healthcare team about all other antiemetic medications you may be taking.

What Are the Side Effects of Aloxi?

Quick Answer: Common side effects include headache, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea. Serious allergic reactions are very rare. Most side effects are mild and transient. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.

Like all medicines, Aloxi can cause side effects, although not everybody will experience them. The frequency and severity of side effects may differ between adult and pediatric patients. Most side effects associated with palonosetron are mild to moderate in severity and resolve spontaneously without specific treatment.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Contact your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), including swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, collapse, or widespread itchy hives. This is very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 patients) but requires immediate medical intervention.

Side Effects in Adults

Common

May affect up to 1 in 10 patients

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea

Uncommon

May affect up to 1 in 100 patients

  • Discoloration and enlargement of veins
  • Euphoria (feeling unusually happy) or anxiety
  • Drowsiness or insomnia
  • Decreased appetite or loss of appetite
  • Weakness, fatigue, fever, or flu-like symptoms
  • Numbness, burning, tingling, or crawling sensation in the skin
  • Itchy skin rash
  • Impaired vision or eye irritation
  • Motion sickness
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • Hiccups, flatulence, dry mouth, or indigestion
  • Abdominal pain
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Joint pain

Uncommon (Seen in Lab Tests)

May affect up to 1 in 100 patients

  • High or low blood pressure
  • Abnormal heart rate or reduced blood flow to the heart
  • Abnormally high or low blood potassium levels
  • High blood sugar or glucose in the urine
  • Low blood calcium levels
  • High blood bilirubin levels
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Abnormal ECG (QT prolongation)

Very Rare

May affect up to 1 in 10,000 patients

  • Burning, pain, or redness at the injection site
  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Side Effects in Children and Adolescents

Common

May affect up to 1 in 10 patients

  • Headache

Uncommon

May affect up to 1 in 100 patients

  • Dizziness
  • Jerky body movements
  • Abnormal heart rate
  • Cough or shortness of breath
  • Nosebleed
  • Itchy skin rash or hives (urticaria)
  • Fever
  • Pain at the infusion site

The overall safety profile of palonosetron is well established through extensive clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance data. In comparative studies, palonosetron has demonstrated a side effect profile that is comparable to or more favorable than that of first-generation 5-HT3 antagonists. The incidence of constipation and headache appears to be similar or lower compared to ondansetron and granisetron.

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience any side effects, including any not listed above, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. You can also report side effects directly through your national reporting system. By reporting side effects, you help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How Should You Store Aloxi?

Quick Answer: Aloxi should be stored out of the sight and reach of children, at room temperature, and must not be used after the expiration date. Each vial is for single use only.

Proper storage of Aloxi is essential to maintain the medication's stability, potency, and safety. While patients are unlikely to store this medication at home — as it is administered by healthcare professionals in clinical settings — it is important to understand the storage requirements.

  • Temperature: No special temperature storage conditions are required. Aloxi can be stored at room temperature. The product does not need to be refrigerated.
  • Light: Store the vial in the original carton to protect from light until ready for use.
  • Expiration date: Do not use Aloxi after the expiration date printed on the vial and carton (indicated as EXP). The expiration date refers to the last day of the stated month.
  • Single use only: Each vial of Aloxi is intended for single use only. Any unused solution remaining after administration must be discarded in accordance with local requirements for pharmaceutical waste.
  • Keep out of reach: Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children at all times.

The solution should be inspected visually before administration. Aloxi injection is a clear, colorless solution supplied in a 5 mL Type I glass vial with a siliconized chlorobutyl rubber stopper and aluminum seal. The solution should not be used if it appears discolored, contains particulate matter, or the vial is damaged in any way.

Healthcare facilities should follow their standard institutional protocols for medication storage, handling, and disposal. Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

What Does Aloxi Contain?

Quick Answer: Aloxi contains palonosetron (as hydrochloride) as the active ingredient. Each 5 mL vial contains 250 micrograms of palonosetron. Inactive ingredients include mannitol, disodium edetate, sodium citrate, citric acid monohydrate, water for injections, sodium hydroxide, and hydrochloric acid.

Understanding the full composition of any medication is important, particularly for patients with known allergies or sensitivities to specific pharmaceutical ingredients.

Active Ingredient

The active substance is palonosetron (as hydrochloride). Each milliliter of solution contains 50 micrograms of palonosetron. Each 5 mL vial contains 250 micrograms of palonosetron, which constitutes one full adult dose. The palonosetron hydrochloride salt form was chosen for its excellent aqueous solubility and stability in solution.

Inactive Ingredients (Excipients)

The other ingredients in Aloxi solution for injection include:

  • Mannitol — acts as a tonicity agent (osmolarity adjustment)
  • Disodium edetate — a chelating agent that enhances stability
  • Sodium citrate — acts as a buffering agent to maintain optimal pH
  • Citric acid monohydrate — buffering agent (pH adjustment)
  • Water for injections — the solvent base
  • Sodium hydroxide — used for pH adjustment during manufacturing
  • Hydrochloric acid — used for pH adjustment during manufacturing

Appearance and Packaging

Aloxi solution for injection is a clear, colorless liquid supplied in a Type I glass vial with a siliconized chlorobutyl rubber stopper and aluminum overseal. Each carton contains one vial with 5 mL of solution, providing one complete dose (250 micrograms of palonosetron).

Other Branded Versions

Palonosetron is also available under several other brand names which contain the same active ingredient:

  • Palonosetron Accord
  • Palonosetron Kalceks
  • Palonosetron Reig Jofre
  • Palonosetron STADA

These generic versions contain the same active substance and have been approved through the same regulatory pathways, ensuring equivalent quality, safety, and efficacy. The marketing authorization holder for the original Aloxi brand is Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals Ltd., based in Dublin, Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aloxi

Aloxi (palonosetron) is a second-generation 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, while ondansetron is a first-generation agent. The key differences include: palonosetron has a much longer half-life (~40 hours vs. ~3–5 hours), stronger receptor binding affinity (~30-fold greater), and superior efficacy against delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Palonosetron requires only a single dose before each chemotherapy cycle, whereas ondansetron often needs to be given multiple times. International guidelines (MASCC/ESMO, NCCN) prefer palonosetron for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy regimens.

While palonosetron is primarily approved for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), some healthcare providers may use it off-label for radiation-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV), particularly for patients receiving highly emetogenic radiation therapy (such as total body irradiation). However, ondansetron and granisetron remain the most commonly used 5-HT3 antagonists for this indication, and the specific approved indications may vary by country. Consult your oncologist for personalized guidance.

Palonosetron has an elimination half-life of approximately 40 hours, which is significantly longer than other 5-HT3 antagonists. It takes approximately 5–6 half-lives (about 8–10 days) for a drug to be virtually eliminated from the body. This long duration of action is what allows a single dose to provide protection against both acute and delayed nausea and vomiting over several days following chemotherapy. Approximately 40% of palonosetron is excreted unchanged by the kidneys, while the remainder is metabolized by the liver.

Yes, there is a recognized risk of serotonin syndrome when Aloxi is used in combination with serotonergic medications, including SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine), MAOIs, triptans, and other serotonergic agents. Serotonin syndrome is characterized by symptoms including mental status changes (agitation, confusion, hallucinations), autonomic instability (rapid heartbeat, blood pressure fluctuations, hyperthermia), and neuromuscular abnormalities (tremor, muscle rigidity, clonus). While rare, this is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

Aloxi should only be used during pregnancy when clearly necessary and the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of palonosetron use in pregnant women. Animal studies did not show teratogenic effects, but animal data cannot always predict human outcomes. Similarly, it is unknown whether palonosetron is excreted in breast milk, so caution is advised for breastfeeding mothers. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your oncologist before receiving Aloxi.

Yes, Aloxi is approved for use in children and adolescents aged 1 month to 17 years for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The dose is calculated based on body weight at 20 micrograms per kilogram, with a maximum dose of 1,500 micrograms. Unlike the adult dose (which is given as a bolus injection over 30 seconds), the pediatric dose is administered as an intravenous infusion over 15 minutes. Clinical trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of palonosetron in the pediatric population, with headache being the most commonly reported side effect.

References

  1. European Medicines Agency (EMA). Aloxi – Summary of Product Characteristics. Last updated 2025. Available at: www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/aloxi
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Aloxi (palonosetron hydrochloride) Prescribing Information. Revised 2024. Available at: FDA Drug Label
  3. Rojas C, Raje M, Tsukamoto T, Slusher BS. Molecular mechanisms of 5-HT3 and NK1 receptor antagonists in prevention of emesis. European Journal of Pharmacology. 2014;722:26-37.
  4. Aapro M, Carides A, Rapoport BL, et al. Aprepitant and fosaprepitant: a 10-year review of efficacy and safety. The Oncologist. 2015;20(4):450-458.
  5. Hesketh PJ, Kris MG, Basch E, et al. Antiemetics: ASCO Guideline Update. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2020;38(24):2782-2797.
  6. MASCC/ESMO Antiemetic Committee. MASCC/ESMO Antiemetic Guidelines 2024. Annals of Oncology. 2024;35(Suppl 2).
  7. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Antiemesis. Version 1.2025. Available at: www.nccn.org
  8. Gralla R, Lichinitser M, Van Der Vegt S, et al. Palonosetron improves prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting following moderately emetogenic chemotherapy: results of a double-blind randomized phase III trial. Annals of Oncology. 2003;14(10):1570-1577.
  9. Eisenberg P, Figueroa-Vadillo J, Zamora R, et al. Improved prevention of moderately emetogenic chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting with palonosetron, a pharmacologically novel 5-HT3 receptor antagonist. Cancer. 2003;98(11):2473-2482.
  10. World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. 23rd Edition, 2023.

Editorial Team

Medical Content

iMedic Medical Editorial Team – Specialists in Oncology and Clinical Pharmacology

Medical Review

iMedic Medical Review Board – Independent expert panel following GRADE evidence framework

Evidence Standard

Level 1A – Based on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials

Guidelines Followed

WHO, EMA, FDA, MASCC/ESMO, NCCN, ASCO Antiemetic Guidelines

All content is independently created without commercial funding or pharmaceutical sponsorship. Our editorial team follows strict evidence-based methodology and international clinical guidelines. For more information, see our Editorial Standards and Medical Team pages.