Prevention  View PDF version (Adobe® PDF)

Managing Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting

Managing nausea and vomiting, or emesis, that often accompanies chemotherapy and radiation therapy is very important. Keeping food and liquids in your stomach provides nourishment and hydration that keeps you strong and healthy. Plus, controlling nausea and vomiting may help you to do the things you enjoy most.

Kytril is an effective anti-emesis treatment that may protect you for 24 hours from the nausea and vomiting that can sometimes occur following chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Preventing emesis is essential, and Kytril has been doing it for more than 8 years. Kytril blocks the body’s ability to send signals to the brain that trigger nausea and vomiting as a result of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Just one dose offers 24-hour protection. And Kytril Injection is safe and effective even for children ages two years and older. Kytril is also safe and effective for the elderly and individuals with heart, liver or kidney concerns and can be taken orally as a tablet or solution, or through an injection prior to your treatment. So talk to your doctor today about Kytril.

In addition to taking Kytril, here are some things you can do to help ease nausea and vomiting:

1. Be comfortable. Wear loose-fitting clothes with elastic or drawstring waistbands.

2. Stick with what you can eat. Eat what you are able to keep down. Do not force yourself to eat foods that make you queasy or uncomfortable.

3. Eat bland foods, like toast, crackers, cereals, gelatins and light soups. Stick with these types of meals until your nausea and vomiting passes.

4. Avoid strong odors. If strong smells from cooking make you nauseated or want to vomit, avoid being in the kitchen at these times. Stay away from heavy perfumes, sprays, smoke or anything with an annoying smell.

5. Relax as much as possible. Feeling nauseated or like you want to vomit can make you feel anxious and uncomfortable. Meditate, listen to soothing music, read, or soak in a warm bath. Do anything that makes you feel more relaxed and at ease.

6. Watch temperatures. Keep your environment cozy, setting the thermostat at a comfortable temperature — you do not want to shiver or sweat if you are nauseated. Also, avoid foods or drinks that are icy cold or very hot; these can be hard on a queasy stomach.

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