New Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea Drug Now Available

Galena Biopharma had introduced ondansetron (Zuplenz) to the US market.

The novel oral soluble film is supplied in 4-mg and 8-mg strengths and indicated to prevent highly and moderately emetogenic chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV), and postoperative nausea and vomiting. It is also approved for moderately emetogenic CINV in pediatric patients 4 years and older.

"Ondansetron is the gold-standard treatment option for patients suffering from nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, radiation treatments, and surgical procedures, and we believe the unique and innovative product attributes of Zuplenz will be a valuable treatment option for patients and physicians to relieve these debilitating side-effects," stated Galena president and CEO Mark Schwartz.

Nausea and vomiting are 2 of the most common side effects reported by patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation. In fact, up to 90% of patients undergoing chemotherapy experience CINV, while up to 80% of patients undergoing radiotherapy experience RINV.

Zuplenz dissolves on the tongue in about 10 seconds without requiring water. This eliminates the burden of swallowing pills during emesis and in cases of oral irritation, potentially increasing patient adherence, Galena noted.

Schwartz said the company will work directly with the patient, prescriber, insurance provider, and pharmacy to help guide the process of getting the patient the medication once it is prescribed by the physician.