Major Findings

Palonosetron is a medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery. This study reports a case of a 37-year-old male who experienced a severe allergic reaction to palonosetron during kidney donation surgery. This reaction, known as anaphylaxis, is a severe allergic response to an allergen, such as a medication. The patient experienced a drop in blood pressure, facial swelling, rash, swollen conjunctiva, and wheezing after the palonosetron injection. He was revived with epinephrine, hydrocortisone, and peniramine and subsequently experienced no further anaphylactic reactions or complications. Although palonosetron is generally considered safe, other cases of hypersensitivity have been reported. Ondansetron, another widely used 5-HT3 antagonist, has also been reported to cause anaphylaxis. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the potential for patients to experience severe adverse reactions to palonosetron. 1

Reasons for side effects

The exact cause of palonosetron's side effects is not fully understood. However, palonosetron is a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, and these receptors are found in the digestive system, especially the vomiting center, suggesting that digestive side effects are more likely. Additionally, palonosetron may trigger allergic reactions. 1

Common side effects

Anaphylaxis

One of the most serious side effects of palonosetron is anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can occur when the body overreacts to an allergen, such as a medication. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include low blood pressure, facial swelling, rash, swollen conjunctiva, and wheezing. 1

Other side effects

Other side effects of palonosetron include headache, constipation, dizziness, and fatigue. 1

Side effect management

Anaphylaxis management

If anaphylaxis occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for anaphylaxis involves medications such as epinephrine, hydrocortisone, and peniramine. 1

Management of other side effects

If you are concerned about palonosetron side effects, consult your doctor. They can provide appropriate advice on mitigating these side effects. 1

Comparison of studies

Commonalities in studies

Palonosetron is a medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery. 1

Differences in studies

This study reports a case of anaphylaxis caused by palonosetron. Other studies have reported different side effects of palonosetron. 1

Precautions for application to real life

Palonosetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery, but it can cause serious side effects like anaphylaxis. It is crucial to understand the risks of side effects and follow your doctor's instructions when taking palonosetron. 1

Limitations of current research

Research on the side effects of palonosetron is still insufficient. Further research is needed. 1

Future research directions

More research is needed to gain a deeper understanding of the side effects of palonosetron. Specifically, it is important to investigate the mechanism of anaphylaxis caused by palonosetron and identify risk factors for anaphylaxis. 1

Conclusion

Palonosetron is a medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery. While generally considered safe, palonosetron can cause serious side effects like anaphylaxis. It is crucial to understand the risks of side effects and follow your doctor's instructions when taking palonosetron. 1