Comparison of a Sulpiride-based and a Metoclopramide based Combination in the Prevention of Delayed Emesis Induced by Chemotherapy

Objective To compare the efficacy and adverse effects of a sulpiride based and a metoclopramide based combination in the prevention of delayed emesis induced by chemotherapy.Methods In a clinical randomized controlled cross over trial, 47 patients treated with regimens containing cisplatin or adriamycin were randomized into AB and BA group. In group AB, sulpiride combined with dexamethasone was given in the first cycle and metoclopramide combined with dexamethasone in the second cycle, while in group BA metoclopramide combined with dexamethasone was given in the first and sulpiride combined with dexamethasone in the second cycle of the same chemotherapy.Results In the sulpiride based combination treated group, complete protection of delayed nausea and vomiting was 61.7% and 66.0% , respectively, while that in the metoclopramide-based combination was 53.2% and 68.1% , respectively. There was no statistical difference between the two groups. There was no notable difference of adverse reactions between the two groups.Conclusion Sulpiride combined with dexamethasone is effective in management of delayed emesis after chemotherapy, and its adverse reactions are mild.