How do corticosteroids function as antiemetics?

Corticosteroids function as antiemetics primarily by reducing inflammation and enhancing the efficacy of other antiemetic agents. These agents, such as dexamethasone or prednisone, are often used in scenarios where inflammation or other factors contribute to nausea and vomiting, particularly in patients undergoing chemotherapy or experiencing postoperative nausea.

By mitigating inflammation, corticosteroids can help alleviate conditions that provoke nausea, creating a more favorable environment in which other antiemetic medications can work more effectively. Furthermore, their ability to act synergistically with other antiemetics improves overall treatment outcomes, making them valuable components of multi-faceted antiemetic therapy regimens. This mechanism makes them particularly useful in managing nausea associated with severe inflammatory responses, such as those seen during chemotherapy.