Variables associated with anticipatory nausea and vomiting in pediatric cancer patients receiving ondansetron antiemetic therapy.

ABSTRACT

Investigated the prevalence of anticipatory nausea and vomiting (ANV) among 59 pediatric cancer patients who had routinely received ondansetron (Zofran) antiemetic therapy and determined patient- and treatment-related factors associated with ANV. Of the sample, 59% indicated at least mild ANV symptoms, suggesting that a significant number of patients report ANV and are bothered by it, despite the use of Zofran. These children were compared to those reporting no ANV symptoms. Most ANV symptomatology was consistent with a traditional classical conditioning model although cognitive processes may also play a role. Children with greater expectations of severe postchemotherapy vomiting and those who were more distressed by nausea and vomiting were more likely to experience ANV symptoms. Implications for psychological and pharmacological treatments of ANV are discussed.