Antiemetic efficacy of cimetidine randomized, double-blind, crossover study with dexamethasone in cancer patients receiving emetogenic chemotherapy.

ABSTRACT

In a randomized, double-blind, crossover study the antiemetic effect of cimetidine was compared with that of dexamethasone in cancer patients receiving emetogenic chemotherapy. Thirty-two patients were evaluable and all were chemotherapy-naive. Eight patients (25%) received high doses of cisplatin, 17 (53%) had cyclophosphamide in combination treatment, 2 (6%) received adriamycin, and 1 another chemotherapy of less emetogenic potential. Complete protection (CR) rates of 59.4% and 62.5% were achieved with cimetidine and dexamethasone, respectively. In addition, three (9.4%) and 1 (3%) patients attained partial protection with cimetidine and dexamethasone, respectively. No significant difference was noted between the two antiemetic therapies (p = 0.07). Although CR has not been achieved in any of those patients who received cisplatin, a comparable antiemetic effect was attained. Both antiemetic regimens were well tolerated with minimal side effects. We conclude that the antiemetic potential of cimetidine and its safety deserve further investigation in a larger study, perhaps in combination with other antiemetic agents.