Aprepitant
Generic Name:
Aprepitant
Brand Names:
Aprepitant Description:
Aprepitant is prescribed in combination with other medications to prevent symptoms of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Aprepitant is in a class of medications called antiemetics which work by blocking the chemical neurokinin, a substance from the brain that triggers nausea and vomiting. Aprepitant may also be prescribed to prevent post-surgery nausea and vomiting.
Aprepitant Side Effects:
The most common side effects of aprepitant include:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Gas
- Stomach pain
For more information, see our aprepitant side effects page.
Aprepitant Uses:
Aprepitant is prescribed to relieve symptoms of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting triggered by signals from the brain. It should be prescribed in conjunction with other medications that work by blocking signals from the stomach that may trigger nausea and vomiting.
Aprepitant Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, vitamins or supplements before beginning treatment with aprepitant.
Before taking Aprepitant, patients should consult their doctor if they are taking any of the following medications:
- Blood thinners
- Antifungals
- Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium)
- Diltiazem
- Cisapride
- Astemizole
- Pimozide
- Terfenadine
- Cancer chemotherapy medications (Gleevec)
- Carbamazepine
- Clarithromycin
- Diltiazam
- HIV protease inhibitors
- Birth control
- Nefazadone
- Oral steroids
- Methylprednisolone
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Phenytoin (Dilantin)
- Rifampin
- Tolbutamide
- Troleandomycin
Patients with a history or current diagnosis with liver disease should consult their doctor before beginning treatment with aprepitant.
This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Patients should inform their doctor of all medicines they are taking to avoid any complications while taking aprepitant.
Aprepitant Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Aprepitant dosages may vary among patients and conditions. Patients should take aprepitant exactly as prescribed by their doctor.
Aprepitant is distributed as a 40 mg, 80 mg, or 120 mg capsule.
Aprepitant is typically taken once a day without food during the first three days of chemotherapy treatment. To prevent nausea and vomiting caused by surgery, aprepitant is usually taken within three hours prior to the start of surgery.
Aprepitant should only be taken to prevent nausea and vomiting. Patients who are already experiencing symptoms of nausea and vomiting should consult their doctor about what to do.
Missing a Dose of Aprepitant
If a dose of aprepitant is missed, take the dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double dose.
Aprepitant Overdose
Patients who experience an overdose may feel drowsy or have a headache. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have overdosed on aprepitant.
Aprepitant FDA Approval:
March 27, 2003
Aprepitant Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There are no recalls or Black Box warnings for aprepitant.
Other Warnings
Aprepitant may lessen the effect of birth control medications. Women should consult their doctor about additional methods of birth control while being treated with aprepitant.
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September 9, 2010, 3:38 pm
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September 8, 2010, 3:39 pm
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September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
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September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
