Journal of oncology pharmacy practice : official publication of the International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners
-
J Oncol Pharm Pract · Jun 2011
Incidence and predictors of cetuximab hypersensitivity reactions in a North Carolina academic medical center.
Previous research has indicated a high incidence of cetuximab hypersensitivity reactions in the southern US. This study documents the incidence of hypersensitivity reactions in North Carolina, and explores whether factors such as patient demographics, allergy history, premedications, and cancer type are potential predictors for cetuximab reactions. ⋯ This study confirms a high rate of cetuximab hypersensitivity reactions in a southern region of the US. Patients with head/neck cancers were significantly more likely to have hypersensitivity reactions than patients with colon cancers.
-
J Oncol Pharm Pract · Dec 2010
Case ReportsSuccessful treatment of ifosfamide neurotoxicity with dexmedetomidine.
Neurotoxicity related to the use of ifosfamide is a well-known complication. While the use of methylene blue is a known antidote, symptomatic treatment of the central nervous system (CNS) effects can be challenging. We present a case of class IV neurotoxicity with the successful treatment of symptomology. ⋯ The patient was transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit where she was administered dexmedetomidine overnight in addition to methylene blue. The patient awoke the next morning following discontinuation of the dexmedetomidine infustion and subsequently had no further central nervous system effects. This case demonstrates the novel use of an alpha-2 agonist in the treatment of neurotoxicity related to ifosfamide administration.
-
J Oncol Pharm Pract · Dec 2010
ReviewChemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: antiemetic trials that impacted clinical practice.
to review the scientific evidence related to serotonin and substance P and the clinical impact targeting these two neurotransmitters have had managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). ⋯ serotonin-type 3 and neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists are the most effective agents currently available. In most cases, these agents are used in conjunction with glucocorticoids. The use of these three types of agents is incorporated into current clinical practice guidelines. Further understanding of the biological and biochemical basis of nausea and vomiting may enhance management of this potentially debilitating adverse effect.
-
J Oncol Pharm Pract · Dec 2010
ReviewThe clinical utility of lenalidomide in multiple myeloma and myelodysplastic syndromes.
the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical utility, adverse effects, dosage, and cost of lenalidomide are reviewed. ⋯ lenalidomide is an effective agent for the treatment of MDS with a 5q deletion and relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma.
-
J Oncol Pharm Pract · Sep 2010
Implementation of a standardized protocol for prevention and management of oral mucositis in patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation.
Oral mucositis is a serious problem that affects a significant number of hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) patients. There are many gaps in management, and evidence-based guidelines do not provide consistent recommendations. The purpose of this pilot study was to develop a mucositis oral care protocol for the prevention and management of mucositis in the HCT patient and to evaluate the clinical impact of its implementation. ⋯ Implementation of a standardized oral care protocol for mucositis management resulted in a decreased incidence, duration and severity of mucositis, and also reduced the global negative impact of mucositis. Future studies may further evaluate the global impact by adjusting for confounding factors.