Olanzapine for the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) has tremendous negative impact on daily life of cancer patients and their quality of life. In this article we analyzed current clinical guidelines in preventive measures and treatment of CINV as well as efficacy of recommended standard regimens for CINV prevention in patients receiving high emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC). We summarized existing data about olanzapine – affordable antipsychotic agent with potent antiemetogenic activity which is quite useful for CINV prophylaxis in patients receiving HEC. We highlighted possible future directions for research of olanzapine in oncology and reasons that preclude integration of this drug in routine clinical practice in Russia.