A randomized trial of ondansetron combined with methyprednisolone for prevention of emesis induced by chemotherapy

Objective To eveluate the efficacy and toxicity of ondansetron combined with methyprednisolone for prevention of gastrointestinal reaction induced by chemotherapy,and compare with ondansetron alone.Methods Forty-three patients treated with combination chemotherapy were enrolled in a randomized crossover study.Results 21 patients were in cisplatin-arm and 22 patients were in non-cisplatin-arm.In cisplatin-arm the combinating group was significantly superior to the single group in the complete response of anorexia on day 1～3 (80%,60% and 50%)?nausea on day 1 (90%) and emesis on day 2 (100%)(P0.05).In non-cisplatin-arm the complete response of anorexia?acute nausea and emesis in combinating group was superior to those in the single group,but with no significant difference.The control of delayed emesis were similar between two groups.The rate of dizzy and constipation in the combinating group was significantly low.Conclusion Methyprednisolone can enhance the efficacy of ondansetron in anorexia?acute nauses and emesis induced by chemotherapy,and reduce the rate of dizzy and constipation.But the efficacy of delayed nauses and emesis were similar between two groups.New approach for effective control of delayed nausea and emesis needs to be explored.