Are antiemetics cost-effective for children?

RETRACTED: Reduction of postoperative emetic episodes and analgesic requirements with dexamethasone in patients scheduled for dental surgery

“…Serotonin receptor antagonists (eg, ondansetron) are available for the prevention and treatment of PONV in patients undergoing various types of operations [4]. However, several investigations have criticized the use of prophylactic antiemetic therapy with serotonin receptor antagonists for their high cost [5,6]. Several methods, including propofol and avoidance of nitrous oxide and/or volatile anesthetics, have been attempted to reduce the frequency and severity of PONV.…”

RETRACTED ARTICLE: Prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting with a small dose of propofol alone and combined with dexamethasone in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A prospective, randomized, double-blind study

“…Previously, Hemly demonstrated that ondansetron was more effective than traditional antiemetics, droperidol, and metoclopramide, for the prophylaxis against PONV following LC [3]. However, several investigations have criticized the use of prophylactic antiemetic therapy with serotonin receptor antagonists, because of their high cost [6,7].…”

Current Management of Vomiting After Tonsillectomy in Children

“…Our hospital pharmacy pays US$103.00 for ondansetron 3 mg, US$1.80 for droperidol 1.25 mg, and US$0.60 for metoclopramide 10 mg. Therefore, investigators have criticized the use of serotonin receptor antagonists as antiemetics [99,100]. Now that the price of ondansetron has become substantially reduced, it is by far the most popular antiemetic for the prophylaxis against POV after pediatric tonsillectomy in US and European countries (without Japan).…”