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Akynzeo Information

Akynzeo (Netupitant/Palonosetron) is used to prevent acute or delayed nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. This sometimes debilitating side effect occurs when cytotoxic cancer treatments trigger the body's emetic centers. It is typically used with other medications, mostly steroids. This medication is a fixed-dose antiemetic combination of netupitant and palonosetron. Netupitant is a neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor antagonist that blocks the action of substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in nausea and vomiting. Palonosetron is a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist that blocks serotonin, another neurotransmitter linked to nausea and vomiting. By targeting these two distinct signaling pathways, Akynzeo helps manage the physiological stress of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, which can otherwise lead to severe dehydration, malnutrition, and a significant decline in an individual’s quality of life or willingness to continue life-saving chemotherapy. This combined approach simplifies the treatment regimen into a single dose, providing a more reliable safeguard against the diverse chemical triggers released during cancer therapy. Akynzeo has been established to be safe and effective in preventing nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, with its adverse effects typically mild. It is more effective in preventing emesis than when either of its active ingredients is used alone. It also maintains its antiemetic effect after repeated chemotherapy cycles.

Akynzeo Side Effects

Like other medications, some individuals might experience side effects while taking Akynzeo. Common mild side effects of this medication include constipation, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and nausea. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Abdominal pain;
• Serotonin syndrome with symptoms like confusion, fast heartbeat, hallucinations, restlessness, shaking, shivering, sudden jerking of muscles, sweating

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Akynzeo Precautions

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to netupitant and palonosetron, peanuts, fructose, or any other ingredients in Akynzeo, or any other medicines. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Bowel problems such as constipation and intestinal blockage;
• Diabetes;
• Electrolyte imbalances;
• Heart disease;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease

Some people feel quite dizzy or fatigued after taking it. It’s advised to see how you feel before driving or operating machinery. It is generally avoided during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Some guidelines explicitly state that women of childbearing potential shouldn't use it unless they are using effective contraception. It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking Akynzeo. While we don't know for sure if it passes into human milk, Netupitant is highly protein-bound, which usually means lower concentrations in milk, but the risk remains unquantified. Use this medication with caution in elderly individuals, as they are at greater risk of adverse effects. It is not suitable for use in individuals under 18 years of age.

Using Akynzeo along with some antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (fluoxetine, sertraline) increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but dangerous neurological emergency. Therefore, before taking Akynzeo, it is important to inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, including herbal products and supplements, to determine whether they may interact with netupitant and palonosetron. This medication is available as a capsule and is usually taken with or without food, with each dose usually taken about 1 hour before the start of chemotherapy. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for you. Take this medication as directed by your doctor. Also, check out the leaflet in the medication pack for more usage details. Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of pets and children.

Do I need a prescription to order Akynzeo?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Akynzeo.