The New Zealand medical journal
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Ondansetron, a selective 5HT3 (serotonin) antagonist, was used in patients refractory to standard antiemetics. Seventy-five patients receiving chemotherapy without cisplatin were given ondansetron 4 mg IV and 4 mg orally immediately prior to chemotherapy, then 8 mg orally after six and 12 hours, followed by 8 mg orally eight hourly during days 2-5. Complete control of vomiting occurred in 52 patients (69%) on the first day and 45 patients (60%) on days 2-5. ⋯ Eight patients (50%) preferred ondansetron to their previous antiemetics. Adverse events with ondansetron were frequent but mild, with constipation and headache being most common. Ondansetron is highly effective in patients refractory to standard antiemetics, especially after noncisplatin chemotherapy.
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a descriptive study to determine the pattern and resource usage of intentional self poisonings presenting to an urban emergency department. ⋯ self poisoning is an activity associated with a low morbidity and mortality that remains a resource consuming problem, even in postbarbiturate times. It is infrequently seen acutely by general practitioners however it is a condition that needs greater awareness as prescribed drugs are usually involved. The tricyclic antidepressants and the beta blockers are of relatively greater importance in utilising ICU services.