Possible Effect of Blonanserin Transdermal Patch on Antiemetic Control in Patients with Terminal Cancer with Refractory Nausea

Background: Haloperidol is widely used for antiemetic control in advanced cancer. However, due to its limited administration methods (oral or injection), its management is frequently challenging in palliative home care. Recently, a blonanserin transdermal patch was developed as the first antipsychotic percutaneous agent.Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate its effectiveness and safety for refractory nausea.Methods: We conducted an observational study of 21 terminal cancer patients who had been initiated for refractory nausea in their homes.Results: After its initiation, none of the patients experienced aggravated nausea, and the number of patients with severe nausea decreased dramatically (52.4% vs. 9.5%, p = 0.008). Of 16 patients without ascites, 12.5% had not improved their nausea, which was lower than in patients with ascites (80.0%).Conclusions: Blonanserin transdermal patch has a possible effect on antiemetic control in cancer patients, and its efficacy might be particularly prominent in patients without ascites.