Evaluation of the Effect of Zingiber Officinalis on Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Receiving Cisplatin Based Regimens

Evaluation of the Effect of Zingiber Officinalis on Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Receiving Cisplatin Based Regimens

The purpose of this study is to determine whether powdered ginger root (encapsulated ginger) is effective for reducing the frequency, duration and severity of both acute and delayed nausea and vomiting.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Must be able to give written informed consent.
• Have a diagnosis of cancer and currently receiving chemotherapy containing cisplatin (any dose).
• Scheduled to receive antiemetics: granisetron (kytril), hydrocortisone.
• Must be able to complete study questionnaires.
• Must be able to swallow capsules.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have no clinical evidence of current or impending bowel obstruction.
• Concurrent radiotherapy that is classified as high or intermediate risk of causing emesis.
• Pregnant or lactating.
• Patients taking therapeutic doses of coumadin (individuals on low-dose to maintain peripheral or central venous catheters are allowed), aspirin (individuals taking low-dose 80mg aspirin are allowed), or heparin.
• Patients with a history of a bleeding disorder(s) in past 6 months and those experiencing thrombocytopenia.