Use of transcutaneous nerve stimulation wristband to treat methotrexate-induced nausea.

BACKGROUND

Although methotrexate is a highly effective treatment for psoriasis, nausea and vomiting may be dose-limiting side effects. Various approaches have been used to improve the tolerability of methotrexate therapy, including changing the dose or form of administration of the methotrexate or concomitant administration of folic acid or an antiemetic.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this case report is to present the use of a novel, nonpharmacologic approach for controlling the nausea associated with methotrexate therapy.

RESULTS

A 47-year-old patient with long-standing psoriasis was treated with methotrexate. She developed nausea refractory to standard antiemetic measures. She noted almost immediate relief of her nausea when using a transcutaneous nerve stimulation wristband.

CONCLUSIONS

Nerve stimulation may be a valid alternative to other first-line antiemetic therapies.