EMEND (Aprepitant)

What is this medication?

Aprepitant, Cinvanti/Emend
Antiemetic, Substance P/Neurokinin 1 Receptor Antagonist

Prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

How does this medication work? 

Aprepitant, Cinvanti/Emend prevents acute and delayed vomiting by inhibiting the substance P/neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor; augments the antiemetic activity of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and corticosteroids to inhibit acute and delayed phases of chemotherapy-induced emesis.

How should I take this medication? 

Oral: 125mg given 1 hour prior to chemotherapy on day 1.

How to Take:  For IV administration, inject over 2 minutes approximately 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy.  Flush infusion line with normal saline after administration.  Infuse over 30 minutes approximately 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy.  Use only non-DEHP tubing for administration of the IV infusion.

How to Take: For oral administration, take with or without food.  First dose should be taken 1 hour prior to chemotherapy.  Swallow capsules whole.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting Aprepitant, Cinvanti/Emend make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take.  Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylactic reactions, have been reported. Symptoms have included dyspnea, erythema, eye swelling, flushing, hypotension, pruritus, syncope, and wheezing. Monitor for hypersensitivity reaction during and following infusion; if a reaction occurs, discontinue infusion and manage appropriately.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Fatigue, neutropenia, hypotension, bradycardia, flushing, palpitations, peripheral edema, syncope, headache, dizziness, hypothermia, peripheral neuropathy, pruritis, alopecia, hyperhidrosis, skin rash, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, hiccups, decreased appetite, flatulence, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, xerostomia, hematologic changes, induration and pain at the site of injection, asthenia, cough, dyspnea, pharyngitis.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Aprepitant, Cinvanti/Emend only common ones.