Palonosetron is a prescription drug that is used for preventing nausea and vomiting in people who are receiving chemotherapy. It works by blocking serotonin, a chemical in the body that is associated with nausea and vomiting. Palonosetron is given through an IV before the start of chemotherapy, and its effects may last for several days. Possible side effects include constipation, headache, dizziness, and diarrhea.
Palonosetron hydrochloride (
Aloxi®) is a prescription nausea and vomiting medication. It is approved to prevent nausea and vomiting that is due to chemotherapy. It is given by IV (intravenously) before chemotherapy, and a single dose helps to prevent nausea and vomiting for several days.
Palonosetron is made by MGI Pharma, Inc.
How Does Palonosetron Work?
Nausea (upset stomach) and vomiting are complex processes involving many chemicals in the body and several parts of the body, including the brain and the small intestine. It is likely that palonosetron works in the small intestine, but it may also work in the brain.
The medication works by blocking serotonin, a chemical produced by the body that is associated with nausea and vomiting. Serotonin has many effects in the body and can bind to several different types of receptors. Palonosetron blocks serotonin at a specific type of receptor (the 5-HT3 receptor), which is important for nausea and vomiting. It has no effects on other types of serotonin receptors in the body.
Palonosetron lasts longer than most other nausea and vomiting medications. This helps to prevent the immediate nausea that can occur within the first day of chemotherapy, as well as nausea and vomiting that can occur in the next few days (known as "delayed" nausea and vomiting).
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