What role do benzodiazepines play in antiemetic therapy?

Benzodiazepines play a significant role in antiemetic therapy primarily by alleviating the anxiety associated with nausea. Anxiety can intensely exacerbate feelings of nausea and vomiting, and benzodiazepines such as lorazepam and diazepam are effective at reducing anxiety levels. This calming effect can indirectly help lessen the perception of nausea and improve patient comfort during episodes of vomiting or treatment protocols, such as chemotherapy, which can provoke severe anxiety in some individuals.

While benzodiazepines may have sedative effects and can complement other antiemetic treatments, they are not generally regarded as primary agents for the direct treatment of nausea itself. Their main therapeutic benefit in an antiemetic context stems from their anxiolytic properties, making patients feel more at ease during what can be distressing situations.