Name of the Procedure:

Promethazine Hydrochloride Administration

• Common Names: Promethazine, Anti-emetic Therapy
• Technical/Medical Term: Promethazine Hydrochloride, 12.5 mg, oral (Q0169)

Summary

Promethazine hydrochloride is an FDA-approved prescription medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting. This oral anti-emetic serves as a complete therapeutic substitute for intravenous (IV) anti-emetics during chemotherapy, not to exceed a 48-hour dosage regimen.

Purpose

Promethazine hydrochloride helps manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), enhancing the patient's comfort and ability to tolerate cancer treatment.

Indications

• Persistent or severe nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy.
• Patients who require a non-IV anti-emetic option.
• Those who need an alternative due to intolerance or contraindications to IV anti-emetics.

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all current medications and allergies.
• Diagnostic tests are usually not necessary unless specified by the treating physician.

Procedure Description

1. Prescription: The healthcare provider prescribes an oral dose of promethazine hydrochloride, typically 12.5 mg.
2. Administration:
   • The medication is taken orally, with or without food.
   • Follow the dosing schedule as recommended, not exceeding a 48-hour course.
3. Monitoring: Healthcare providers may monitor for side effects or efficacy.

Duration

• The medication is typically taken over a course not exceeding 48 hours during chemotherapy treatment.

Setting

• The medication can be taken at home or within a clinical setting as directed by a healthcare provider.

Personnel

• Prescribing physician (Oncologist or General Practitioner)
• Pharmacist for dispensing the medication
• Healthcare provider for monitoring side effects and effectiveness

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, constipation.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions, respiratory depression, extrapyramidal symptoms (involuntary muscle movements).

Benefits

• Effective management of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.
• Improved tolerance and compliance with chemotherapy treatment.
• The convenience of oral administration over IV.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care:
  • Adhere to the dosing schedule; do not exceed the prescribed duration.
  • Monitor for side effects and report any severe or unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider.
• Expected Recovery Time: The anti-emetic effects begin shortly after administration and continue for the duration of chemotherapy.
• Restrictions/Follow-up: Follow up with your healthcare provider as recommended.

Alternatives

• Other Options:
  • IV anti-emetics (e.g., ondansetron or granisetron).
  • Other oral anti-emetics (e.g., metoclopramide or dexamethasone).
• Pros and Cons:
  • IV Anti-emetics: Faster onset and higher efficacy but require clinical setting and IV access.
  • Other Oral Anti-emetics: May have different side effect profiles or efficacy levels.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients typically take the medication orally; they might feel drowsy or dizzy as a common side effect.
• After the Procedure: Continued relief from nausea and vomiting, potential mild side effects like drowsiness. Pain management is usually not needed, but patients should ensure adequate hydration and rest.

Promethazine hydrochloride is a convenient and effective option for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, ensuring patients can continue their cancer treatment with reduced discomfort.