The antiemetic drugs are really expensive. When I was taking Zofran it was $35 a tablet (Emend is a newer, similar drug). They are both in the SSRI family of drugs and literally switch off the nausea center in the brain. It only works about 60% of the time and should not be used longer than a week at a time since it will lose it's effectiveness.

Some of the less expensive drugs are Compazine and Ativan. Compazine also comes in a suppository form which is very handy if you can't keep anything down.

Sometimes they will add Reglan into the mix (to keep things moving though your system).

Cisplatin is not only tough on the kidneys but also causes mouth sores and does a number on the stomach. I was also prescribed industrial strength antiacids (Pepcid, etc.). It is absolutely critical that you stay hydrated during your entire treatment adventure. If you throw up, you must replace the fluids you lost. Keep a daily journal of your water and calory intake.

Everyone responds differently to treatment - some have responded very well to anti nausea drugs.

When you start getting into the pain meds you WILL have constipation problems and they can be quite severe. Speak with your nutritionist about countermeasures.

The advice that I got at the time was to have a full stomach before infusion and eat snacks during infusion. Most infusion centers will provide them. I didn't find the infusion thing to be so bad, like others have said they typically have very special and compassionate nurses in the infusion unit. It's also the best place to get rehydrated (rather then go to emergency). Most of the chairs had TV's, I brought an iPod and listened to music and/or read. Ask for a heating pad for your arm with the IV - it will make it a lot more comfortable.

About hair loss. Cisplatin isn't the worst chemo drug for this side effect - you will lose some hair. Radiation will permanently kill the hair follicles directly in the beam field. So for men, we never have to shave below our chin again. I am assuming an oropharyngeal cancer.

Your local ACS should be able to provide you with drivers. If you have to drive more than 60 miles RT to Tx, they will also pay you a small mileage allowance (not to exceed $200 - if someone is driving you)