Which two drugs are off-label used for chemo-induced nausea and vomiting?

The use of olanzapine and lorazepam for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is considered off-label because these medications are not primarily indicated for this specific purpose according to the official prescribing information.

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic that has shown efficacy in treating nausea and vomiting due to its action on multiple neurotransmitter receptors, providing a unique approach to manage CINV as it is thought to modulate the dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways involved in emesis.

Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, is often used for its anxiolytic effects, but it also possesses antiemetic properties, especially in the context of anticipatory nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy. The use of these medications for CINV can be beneficial in patients who may not respond adequately to standard antiemetics.

This understanding highlights the importance of recognizing off-label uses of medications, allowing healthcare providers to offer comprehensive care tailored to individual patient needs, particularly in challenging conditions such as CINV.