Palonosetron Injection

Category: Antiemetic (5-HT3 receptor antagonist)
Form: Injectable solution for intravenous (IV) use

Uses:

• Prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by:

  • Chemotherapy (both highly and moderately emetogenic)

  • Postoperative procedures

• Particularly effective for delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Mechanism of Action:

• Palonosetron selectively blocks serotonin (5-HT3) receptors in the central nervous system (chemoreceptor trigger zone) and gastrointestinal tract.

• Prevents the initiation of the vomiting reflex triggered by serotonin release.

• Has a longer half-life and stronger receptor binding compared to older 5-HT3 antagonists, providing prolonged antiemetic effect.

Administration:

• Administered as an intravenous injection prior to chemotherapy or surgery.

• Dosage is typically a single IV dose, depending on patient age, weight, and protocol.

Side Effects:

• Cardiovascular: rare QT interval prolongation, bradycardia.

• Gastrointestinal: constipation, diarrhea.

• Neurological: headache, dizziness, fatigue.

• Other: injection site reactions.

Precautions:

• Monitor patients with cardiac conduction abnormalities due to rare QT prolongation.

• Use cautiously in patients with liver impairment.

• Avoid rapid IV push to reduce risk of transient hypotension or dizziness.

Summary:
Palonosetron Injection is a long-acting 5-HT3 receptor antagonist used to prevent nausea and vomiting, especially in chemotherapy and postoperative settings. It works by blocking serotonin receptors in the brain and gut, thereby stopping the vomiting reflex. Administered intravenously, it has a prolonged effect and side effects are generally mild, including headache, constipation, and rare cardiac effects.