Omission of dexamethasone in paclitaxel premedication regimens: protocol of the multicentre, randomised, non-inferiority DEXASTOP trial.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Standard premedication for paclitaxel-based chemotherapy includes dexamethasone and an histamine 1-antagonist to prevent hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs). However, the pharmacological rationale for dexamethasone is limited, and its use is associated with adverse effects such as hyperglycaemia, insomnia and immunodeficiency, negatively impacting health-related quality of life (HRQoL). No clear link has been established between dexamethasone dose, administration route and HSR incidence. Previous studies suggest that discontinuing dexamethasone beyond the second administration does not increase HSR risk. Despite this, dexamethasone remains standard practice. This trial evaluates whether complete omission of dexamethasone as paclitaxel premedication is non-inferior to the

SUBMITTER: Zietse M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12035437 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature