Key facts about Aprepitant
What dosages is Aprepitant available in?
Aprepitant is available as a 80 mg and 125 mg oral capsule and 125 mg oral suspension.
What is Aprepitant used for?
Aprepitant is an NK1 receptor antagonist and is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by certain chemotherapy. It is typically taken along with dexamethasone and a serotonin antagonist (e.g., ondansetron (Zofran).
How does Aprepitant work?
Aprepitant is an antiemetic that belongs to the drug class called NK1 receptor antagonists. It works by blocking certain chemicals in the brain that can cause nausea and vomiting. As a result, Aprepitant helps ease both acute and delayed nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy.
How do I take Aprepitant?
Aprepitant is typically dosed based on the chemotherapy regimen you’re getting and the other anti-nausea medications you’re taking. Aprepitant is taken by mouth, typically 1 hour before your chemotherapy treatment.
Is it safe for me to take Aprepitant?
Aprepitant is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have a known hypersensitivity to any component of this drug or are currently taking pimozide.
Aprepitant Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Aprepitant include:
- Tiredness
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Indigestion
- Belly pain
- Hiccups
- Lower white blood cell count
- Headache
- Low appetite
- Cough
- Dizziness
Aprepitant Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Aprepitant.
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Aprepitant
The following medications may interact with Aprepitant:
- Multiple drug interactions because of extensive plasma protein binding, saturable metabolism and potent induction of hepatic enzymes such as Aprepitant, alfuzosin, doxazosin, tamsulosin, amiodarone, cabazitaxel, docetaxel, doxorubicin, etoposide, ifosfamide, irinotecan and vincristine
Who makes Aprepitant?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Aprepitant safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Aprepitant will harm your unborn baby. You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant.
