While there are many medications available for the prevention and treatment of nausea from chemotherapy, some patients may not achieve optimal control with the standard anti-nausea regimens.  Ginger has emerged as a possible treatment option for patients who have experienced nausea or vomiting from chemotherapy.

A recent study examined the effect of ginger in patients who have failed standard anti-nausea therapy for chemotherapy induced nausea.  This study showed a significant reduction in chemotherapy induced nausea for patients taking ginger in combination with standard anti-nausea medications (such as ondansetron/Zofran).  The largest reduction in nausea was seen in the patients taking 0.5-1 gram dose of ginger daily.  Results from this study should be considered preliminary until the full trial is published in a peer reviewed journal and examined by experts. 

The suggested dosing for the use of ginger in chemotherapy induced nausea is 250-500mg twice daily for six days, starting three days before chemotherapy.  It is theorized that a half teaspoon of fresh or dried ground ginger would be equivalent.  This amount of ginger could be obtained from the diet as long as real ginger is used (not artificial ginger flavoring).  Ginger supplementation must be given along with standard anti-nausea medications like ondansetron (Zofran) and dexamethasone.

A prescription from your physician is not necessary to obtain ginger.  It is available over the counter at many drug and health food stores.  Candidates for this treatment would be patients who have experienced nausea or vomiting on the first cycle of chemotherapy despite using standard therapy.  During the subsequent cycles a patient could then add on ginger to help prevent nausea.  While ginger is usually well tolerated, possible side effects include abdominal discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and a pepper-like irritant effect in the mouth and throat.  Ginger may interact with many medications, so be sure to check with your physician or pharmacist to see if you are taking one of the interacting medications.  This treatment should be used only under the supervision of your doctor.  Also, be sure to consult your health care providers prior to starting ginger therapy. Ginger is currently available at most outpatient pharmacies including the Kellogg Point of Care Pharmacy located at Evanston Hospital.