Hydroxyzine pamoate, 25 mg, oral, fda approved prescription anti-emetic, for use as a complete therapeutic substitute for an iv anti-emetic at the time of chemotherapy treatment, not to exceed a 48 hour dosage regimen
HCPCS code
Hydroxyzine Pamoate, 25 mg, Oral (HCPCS Code: Q0177)
Name of the Procedure:
Hydroxyzine pamoate, 25 mg, oral administration - FDA-approved prescription anti-emetic as a substitute for intravenous (IV) anti-emetics during chemotherapy.
Summary
Hydroxyzine pamoate is an oral medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. It serves as an effective alternative to IV anti-emetics, providing patient comfort and ease of administration.
Purpose
Hydroxyzine pamoate aims to:
- Alleviate nausea and vomiting that often accompanies chemotherapy treatments.
Serve as a complete therapeutic substitute for IV anti-emetics.
The primary goal is to manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), ensuring patient comfort and adherence to treatment protocols.
Indications
Hydroxyzine pamoate is indicated for:
- Patients undergoing chemotherapy who experience nausea and vomiting.
- Patients who prefer or require oral medication over IV administration.
Preparation
No extensive preparation is typically required for hydroxyzine pamoate.
- Follow your doctor's instructions regarding medication intake prior to chemotherapy.
- Inform healthcare providers about any other medications or supplements you are taking.
Procedure Description
- Administration:
- The patient takes a 25 mg capsule of hydroxyzine pamoate orally.
- Usually prescribed, not to exceed a 48-hour dosage regimen.
- Timing:
- Administered around the time of chemotherapy as directed by the healthcare provider.
- Monitoring:
- Patients are monitored for efficacy and any adverse reactions.
No special tools or equipment are required other than the medication itself, and anesthesia or sedation is not applicable.
Duration
The medication is taken over a period not exceeding 48 hours.
Setting
The procedure can be administered at home, in an outpatient clinic, or in a hospital, depending on the patient's condition and treatment plan.
Personnel
Typically supervised by:
- Oncologists.
- Nurses.
- Pharmacists.
Risks and Complications
Common risks include:
- Drowsiness.
- Dry mouth.
Possible allergic reactions.
Rare complications may include:
Severe hypersensitivity, which requires immediate medical attention.
Management involves altering dosage or switching to alternative medications if necessary.
Benefits
Hydroxyzine pamoate:
- Effectively prevents chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Offers a non-invasive, oral option compared to IV anti-emetics.
Benefits are typically realized within the first 24-48 hours of usage.
Recovery
Post-procedure care:
- Continue taking as prescribed until the regimen is complete.
Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider.
No extensive recovery period is necessary, and standard activities can generally be resumed immediately unless otherwise advised.
Alternatives
Other anti-emetic options:
- IV anti-emetics.
Other oral anti-emetics.
Pros and Cons:
- IV anti-emetics may be necessary in cases of severe nausea but are more invasive.
- Other oral anti-emetics may offer different side effect profiles or efficacies.
Patient Experience
Patients generally experience:
- Relief from nausea and vomiting.
Possible mild drowsiness and dry mouth.
Pain management is typically not necessary, and the medication is designed to enhance comfort during chemotherapy.