Methylprednisolone as an antiemetic drug. A randomised double blind study

To evaluate the antiemetic efficacy of high-dose methylprednisolone (MP) in previously untreated cancer patients receiving cisplatin (CPDD) for the first time, we performed a randomized double blind study. MP or a placebo (PLB) was administered six times during each course of chemotherapy. The first dose was 500 mg and all others, 250 mg. A total of 30 patients were included and studied during three chemotherapy courses. No significant differences were found between the MP- and PLB-treated group with respect to the number of emetic episodes and degree of nausea. There was also no difference for pain, appetite, nausea, vomiting, sleep, weakness, or energy level as analyzed by the use of a Linear Analog Self-Assessment (LASA) scale up to 7 days after chemotherapy. On the other hand, the assessment of well-being, anxiety, and mood favored the PLB group. We conclude that high-dose MP used as a single antiemetic medication against CPDD-induced nausea and vomiting is of only limited value or none at all.