The Sound of Evolution
Dolasetron
Mechanism of action:
Dolasetron is a selective serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist. When chemotherapy or anesthesia stimulates the gastrointestinal mucosa, enterochromaffin cells release large amounts of serotonin, or 5-HT, which acts on vagal nerve endings and the chemoreceptor trigger zone in the medulla, causing nausea and vomiting. Dolasetron competitively antagonizes 5-HT3 receptors, preventing serotonin from activating these neural pathways and thereby suppressing the nausea and vomiting reflex.
Reference(s):
1. Balfour JA et al. (1997). Dolasetron. A review of its pharmacology and therapeutic potential in the management of nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. Drugs.
2. Gregory RE et al. (1998). 5-HT3 receptor antagonists for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: a comparison of their pharmacology and clinical efficacy. Drugs.