What is this medication for?
Palonosetron belongs to the class of medications called 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. This medication is used to prevent nausea and vomiting during the first 24 hours following surgery and to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with particular types of cancer chemotherapy. It works by reducing the effects of a naturally-occurring chemical in the body called serotonin, which causes nausea and vomiting after certain types of chemotherapy and radiation.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
After surgery: The recommended adult dose to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery is an injection of 0.075 mg intravenously (into a vein) before anesthesia is given.
Before chemotherapy: The recommended adult dose to prevent nausea and vomiting with chemotherapy is an injection of 0.25 mg intravenously (into a vein) approximately 30 minutes before chemotherapy is to begin. The recommended adult dose of the capsule form of this medication is 0.5 mg taken by mouth approximately 1 hour before chemotherapy is to begin, taken with or without food.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Palonosetron should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to palonosetron or to any of the ingredients of the medication.
