| Brand Name | Emend |
| Generic Name | Aprepitant |
| Drug Class | Neurokinin-1 (NK1) Receptor Antagonist |
| Availability | Prescription |
| Manufacturer | Merck & Co. |
| Indications | Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) |
| Type | Capsule, Oral Suspension |
| Doses | 125 mg orally on day 1, then 80 mg daily for 2 days |
| Route | Oral |
| Side Effects | Fatigue, hiccups, constipation, nausea, dizziness |
| Interactions | May interact with warfarin, oral contraceptives, dexamethasone, ketoconazole, atazanavir. |
| Overdose | Fatigue, hiccups, dizziness, GI symptoms. Generally well tolerated. |
| Missed Dose | Take ASAP before chemotherapy session. Skip if too late; consult oncologist. |
| Contraindications | Concurrent use with pimozide, hypersensitivity to aprepitant |
| Alternatives | Ondansetron (5-HT3 receptor antagonist, often used as a first-line anti-nausea drug) Granisetron (5-HT3 receptor antagonist) Dexamethasone (steroid used in combination with other anti-nausea medications for chemotherapy) Metoclopramide (prokinetic agent, also effective for nausea) |
| Co-Pay Assistance Program | Available |
| Patient Assistance Program | Available |
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Aprepitant is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and surgery. It works by blocking the neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor in the brain.
Aprepitant works by blocking the neurokinin-1 receptor, which is involved in the vomiting reflex, helping to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or surgery.
Common side effects include fatigue, dizziness, and constipation. Serious side effects may include allergic reactions or liver problems.
Aprepitant is typically taken orally in capsule form, usually one hour before chemotherapy. It may be used in combination with other anti-nausea medications.
Aprepitant should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance if you are pregnant.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Aprepitant is not typically used for motion sickness but is effective for preventing nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or surgery.
Aprepitant works quickly, typically within an hour of administration, to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or surgery.
Aprepitant can interact with other medications, especially those affecting the liver, as it is metabolized by liver enzymes. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you're taking.
Yes, Aprepitant is often used in combination with other anti-nausea medications, such as dexamethasone and 5-HT3 antagonists, to provide comprehensive nausea control.
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