Palonosetron injection is used to prevent nausea and vomiting that may occur within 24 hours after receiving cancer chemotherapy or surgery. It is also used to prevent delayed nausea and vomiting that may occur several days after receiving certain chemotherapy medications. Palonosetron injection is in a class of medications called 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of serotonin, a natural substance that may cause nausea and vomiting.
Palonosetron injection comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected intravenously (into a vein) by a healthcare provider in a hospital or clinic. When palonosetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, it is usually given as a single dose about 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy. If you are receiving more than one course of chemotherapy, you may receive a dose of palonosetron before each treatment cycle. When palonosetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by surgery, it is usually given as a single dose just before the surgery.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
headache
dizziness
constipation
diarrhea
gas
difficulty urinating
anxiety
weakness
pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
hives
rash
itching
difficulty breathing or swallowing
Palonosetron injection may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while receiving this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Ask your doctor any questions you have about your medication.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Revised - 02/01/2010
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.