Developing Drugs for Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Draft Guidance from the FDA

The administration of preventative therapy for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is an essential component of the treatment plan for many patients with cancer. In May 2021, the FDA issued a draft guidance for industry to facilitate the clinical development of drugs for the prevention of CINV in adults. FDA guidance has a vital role in the regulatory dialogue between the Agency and external stakeholders. Sharing the FDA's current recommended approach can expedite drug development and ultimately the availability of safe and effective therapies to patients in need. In addition, guidance documents may be leveraged to facilitate communication between regulatory agencies, the academic community, patient advocacy groups, and the pharmaceutical industry. The draft guidance for industry Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Developing Drugs for Prevention (May 2021) outlines the FDA's current recommendations regarding clinical development programs for drugs for the prevention of CINV and the required attributes of patients for enrollment, aspects of trial design, and efficacy assessments. This article provides an overview of the recommendations contained in the draft guidance.