Why are antiemetics given as premedication before chemotherapy?

• A. To prevent hair loss.
• B. To prevent or reduce infection.
• C. To treat anemia.
• D. To prevent or reduce acute and delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and improve patient comfort and adherence.

Answer: (D)

Premedication with antiemetics is used to prevent or lessen nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, covering both the immediate (acute) phase and the days following treatment (delayed). By blocking pathways that trigger vomiting, these drugs reduce the frequency and severity of CINV, helping patients stay comfortable and able to complete their chemotherapy as planned. This improves hydration, energy, and overall ability to adhere to treatment schedules. The other options don’t target nausea and vomiting—hair loss, infection risk, and anemia are different side effects managed by separate strategies, so antiemetics aren’t aimed at those issues.