From guidelines to practice: Patient-focused and evidence-informed update of antiemetic recommendations in Ontario.

Abstract

39 Background: Cancer Care Ontario (CCO) last updated their guidance for the management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in 2013. Since then, new evidence emerged which changed antiemetic recommendations internationally. The CCO Antiemetic Working Group reviewed the current literature and updated existing recommendations for the prevention and management of CINV in adult patients. Methods: Ontario subject matter experts consisting of oncologists, pharmacists and nurses formed the Group. Relevant guidelines published from prominent jurisdictions were assessed. A literature search was done to incorporate the latest evidence. All chemotherapy regimens in the CCO Drug Formulary were reviewed. Ontario Cancer Leads for each disease site were consulted to ensure emetic classifications for all regimens and antiemetic recommendations reflected both the evidence (including gaps in the literature) and clinical practice (including gaps between evidence and practice). Results: Recommendations for antiemetic agents for highly, moderately, low and minimal emetic risk intravenous and oral chemotherapy are outlined. Chemotherapy regimens in the CCO Drug Formulary were reviewed and emetic risks updated. Recommendations differed from those of major international guidelines (including ASCO) around olanzapine dosing, cannabinoids and emetic risk classification. Conclusions: A systematic approach to updating antiemetic recommendations resulted in evidence-informed recommendations that are patient-focused and clinically feasible.