0

Home > Drug Category > Cancer Medications > Emend and Equivalent

Emend Information

Emend (Aprepitant) is primarily used for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with highly and moderately emetogenic chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is intended to destroy malignant cells, but it often triggers the release of neurotransmitters that signal the brain to initiate vomiting. This defense mechanism can be physically exhausting and may compromise the individual’s ability to complete their treatment. This medication is also used in the prevention of nausea and vomiting after a surgical operation.

The active ingredient is aprepitant, a potent and selective antagonist of the substance P/neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor. This medication works by selectively inhibiting the binding of substance P, a naturally occurring neuropeptide, to neurokinin receptors located in the brainstem's emetic center and the gastrointestinal tract. By blocking the NK1 receptors, aprepitant interrupts these specific signaling pathways before the vomiting reflex is fully activated. This is particularly effective for the delayed phase of chemotherapy-induced nausea, which often persists for several days after treatment and remains resistant to many standard antiemetics. Consequently, it helps maintain the patient’s nutritional intake and quality of life during intensive medical therapy.

Emend Side Effects

Like all medications, aprepitant can cause some side effects. Common mild side effects of this medication include abdominal pain, altered taste, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, flushing, hair loss, headache, hiccups, loss of appetite, muscle cramps, upset stomach, vomiting, and weakness. 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;
• Fever;
• Infection with symptoms like fever or chills, severe diarrhea, shortness of breath, prolonged dizziness, headache;
• Painful or burning sensation while urinating;
• Red, itchy eyes with discharge;
• Ringing in the ears

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

Emend Precautions

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to aprepitant, other ingredients in Emend, 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:
• Liver disease

Because it can cause sleepiness or dizziness, you should be cautious about driving or operating machinery until you know exactly how the drug affects you. This medication should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. Emend can make contraceptive pills, patches, and rings less effective. You must use a backup, non-hormonal birth control method (like condoms) during treatment and for 28 days after your last dose. Likewise, taking Emend with pimozide is strictly prohibited. It can lead to dangerously high levels of pimozide in the blood, potentially causing life-threatening heart rhythm issues (specifically QT prolongation). Therefore, before using this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including herbal medicines and supplements, to determine whether it is safe to use with Emend. The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been established in children under 18.

Emend is available in capsules of different dosage strengths, while Emend Tri-Fold Pack contains two 80 mg capsules and one 125 mg capsule. The recommended dose of aprepitant is 125 mg by mouth, taken 1 hour before chemotherapy, and 80 mg once daily in the morning for the next 2 days following chemotherapy. However, consult your doctor for the appropriate dose and duration of treatment for you. Aprepitant can be taken with or without food. Check out the leaflet in the medication pack for more usage instructions. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Emend?

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