Understanding Australian Pharmacists' Perceptions on the Utilisation of Oral 5-HT3 Antagonists as Pharmacist-Only Anti-Emetics in Comparison to Oral D2 Antagonists.

Objectives

To investigate the perception of community pharmacists on the down-scheduling of 5-HT3 antagonists to pharmacist-only-medicine for treatment of acute nausea and/or vomiting in Australia.

Methods

A nationwide anonymous survey targeting Australian community pharmacists was conducted from April to May 2023. Responses were collected and analysed quantitively or qualitatively, where appropriate. Key findings: Participants reported that 5-HT3 antagonists were effective at treating nausea and/or vomiting and would likely recommend their use. Training is required to manage supply due to concerns related to their side effects.

Conclusion

Participants supported down-scheduling of 5-HT3 antagonists for the treatment of nausea and/or vomiting in Australia. A pilot study on the provision of 5-HT3 antagonists by pharmacists is recommended as is the development of guidelines for pharmacist-only supply before down-scheduling is considered.