Metoclopramide in the reduction of nausea and vomiting associated with combined chemotherapy.

The nausea and vomiting associated with combination chemotherapy is a serious cause of morbidity. Though widely used, metoclopramide has not previously been shown, in controlled studies, to be of benefit in reducing these side-effects. A double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial of IV and oral metoclopramide is reported, based on 117 courses of chemotherapy. Of 59 courses in which metoclopramide was given, vomiting was prevented in 28 (47%), compared with only 10 of 58 (17%) in the control group, a highly significant (P less than 0.001) improvement. The importance of adequate dosage of metoclopramide and the role of IV metoclopramide are emphasized.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes