Are you about to start chemotherapy for cancer? Or are you already receiving treatment? Then one of the biggest inconveniences you will feel is nausea and vomiting. This is really a very annoying experience. So, a special medicine that doctors prescribe to control this discomfort is called Dolasetron. Today, we will talk about this medicine, how to use it, things to be careful about, and side effects in a simple and clear way.
What kind of medicine is this?
Simply put, Dolasetron is a medicine that prevents nausea and vomiting that occurs when you are given chemotherapy. There are certain chemicals in our body that cause nausea and vomiting. This medicine works by blocking the action of those chemicals. In medical terms, this type of medicine is called antiemetics. That is, it is a medicine that works against vomiting. Sometimes, the doctor may prescribe this medicine for other reasons as well.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before prescribing this medication, your doctor should take a complete medical history of you. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Do you have these conditions? | Why is it important to tell the doctor ? |
|---|---|
| Any type of heart disease. | This medicine can sometimes affect the heart rhythm. |
| A history of irregular heartbeat. | The risk may be higher if there were previous problems. |
| Kidney disease. | Because the kidneys remove drugs from the body, their function is important. |
| Low levels of magnesium or potassium in the blood. | These minerals are essential for heart function. |
| Having an allergic reaction to medications such as dolasetron, granisetron, ondansetron, or any other medicine, food, or dye. | This is essential to prevent a serious allergic reaction. |
| You are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. | The doctor should consider the possible impact on the fetus. |
| You are a mother who is breastfeeding a child. | You should be aware of the possibility of the medicine passing to the baby through breast milk. |
How should I use the medicine?
This medicine comes as a pill. Swallow it with a glass of water. It is very important to take it exactly as your doctor tells you, in the amount he tells you, and as often as he tells you . Never take more than your doctor tells you. This medicine is usually given about an hour before your cancer treatment starts.
If you give this to small children...
Doctors can prescribe this medicine to children over 2 years of age in some special cases. But they do so with great caution. Therefore, if this medicine is given to a child, it should only be done on medical advice .
What to do if you take too much medicine? (Overdosage)
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, the first thing you should do is call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital as soon as possible. This is an emergency, so don't delay.
This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason. What works for you may not work for someone else. It may harm them.
Can this cause problems with other medications?
Yes. This is a very important point. Dolasetron can interact with some other medications. This can cause unwanted side effects or change the way the medication works.
| Do not take Dolasetron with this medicine. | |
|---|---|
| Some fungicides | Eg: fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole |
| Cisapride | (A medicine given for a disease of the digestive system) |
| Dronedarone, Pimozide, Thioridazine | (Medication for heart disease and mental illness) |
| Take special care when taking Dolasetron with these medications. | |
| Antiviral drugs for HIV or AIDS | Medications for mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety |
| Beta blockers | Eg: atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol |
| Calcium channel blockers | Ex: diltiazem, verapamil |
| Various other medications | Medicines such as Cimetidine, Digoxin, Diuretics, Rifampin, Tramadol, Fentanyl, Linezolid, MAOIs, Methylene blue. |
Most importantly: This list is not exhaustive. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (prescribed or over-the-counter), including any herbal products, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
What side effects are possible?
Like any medicine, Dolasetron can cause side effects in some people. Some are serious, while others are mild. The important thing is to be aware of these and take action quickly if necessary.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Changes in heart rate rhythm | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly, dizziness, fainting, chest pain. |
| Symptoms of Serotonin syndrome | Restlessness, confusion, muscle stiffness or twitching, excessive sweating, high fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea. This is a very serious condition. |
| Usually not serious, but tell your doctor if it persists. | |
| Headache | A mild to moderate headache may occur. |
| Dizziness and fatigue | You may feel tired or dizzy. |
| Diarrhea or stomach upset | Flatulence or mild stomach discomfort may occur. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How should I store the medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius (68-77 °F). Protect from excessive heat and light.
- Never use expired medications . Dispose of them properly.
Take-Home Message
- Dolasetron is an important medication used to control nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy.
- Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor about all of your health conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- Take only the prescribed dose as prescribed by your doctor. Do not share this medicine with anyone else for any reason.
- If you experience any serious side effects such as skin rash, difficulty breathing, or rapid heartbeat, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you suspect an overdose, call the National Poisons Information Center immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
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