Why is this medication prescribed?

Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection is prescribed primarily to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy treatment. Chemotherapy drugs can trigger nausea and vomiting, which can be severe and distressing for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection belongs to a class of medications known as neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of substance P, a neurotransmitter in the brain that is involved in triggering nausea and vomiting.

This medication is often prescribed in combination with other anti-nausea medications to provide comprehensive relief from chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). By blocking the action of substance P, Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection helps to prevent or reduce the severity and frequency of nausea and vomiting, thereby improving the quality of life for patients undergoing chemotherapy.

How should this medicine be used?

Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection is typically administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare professional in a hospital or clinic setting. The specific dosage and administration schedule will be determined by your healthcare provider based on factors such as the type of chemotherapy you are receiving and your individual medical condition.

Here are some general guidelines for the use of Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection:

• Administration: The injection is given into a vein (IV) over a specific period of time, typically over 30 minutes or more. The injection should be administered by a trained healthcare professional.
• Dosage: The dosage of Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection will depend on various factors, including the type of chemotherapy being administered and whether other anti-nausea medications are being used. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Timing: Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection is usually given before chemotherapy treatment begins to help prevent nausea and vomiting. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the timing of the injection.
• Follow-Up: Your healthcare provider may schedule additional doses of Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection as part of your chemotherapy regimen. It’s essential to attend all scheduled appointments and follow your provider’s recommendations closely.
• Storage: Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions and kept out of reach of children.

As with any medication, it’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you may have regarding the use of Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection. They can provide you with personalized guidance based on your individual medical needs.

Other uses for this medicine

While Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection is primarily prescribed to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, there may be other off-label uses for this medication. However, it’s important to note that any off-label use should be discussed with and monitored by a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection. Here are some important considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to Aprepitant or any other medications. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Medical Conditions: Before using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection, inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have liver problems or any other medical conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection with your healthcare provider. It’s essential to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or infant against the benefits of the medication.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection, such as dizziness, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, and changes in taste. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning side effects while using this medication.
• Dosage and Administration: Use Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or administration schedule without consulting your provider.
• Storage: Store Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection according to the manufacturer’s instructions and keep it out of reach of children.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function and other relevant parameters while you are using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection to minimize the risk of adverse effects and maximize its benefits. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection typically involve avoiding consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medication. Grapefruit may interact with Aprepitant, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s essential to follow any dietary recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection, contact your healthcare provider or treatment facility for guidance. It’s important not to double the dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosing schedule accordingly.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in taste
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Hiccups
• Injection site reactions (such as pain, redness, or swelling)

Less common but potentially more severe side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or difficulty breathing)
• Liver problems (signs may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea or vomiting)
• Low blood cell counts (which may increase the risk of infection or bleeding)
• Severe diarrhea or abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Severe dizziness or fainting

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about the side effects you are experiencing, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and determine whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal instructions for Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection:

• Storage: Store the medication according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection may need to be refrigerated or kept at room temperature, depending on the specific formulation. Be sure to keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local waste disposal authority for guidance on the proper disposal of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection:

• Seek Medical Assistance: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Symptom Management: While awaiting medical assistance, follow any first aid measures recommended by healthcare professionals or poison control centers. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical personnel.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider while using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection. They may monitor your response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments to your medication regimen.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection, as grapefruit may interact with the medication and affect its effectiveness.
• Keep a List of Medications: Keep a list of all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and share it with your healthcare provider. This can help prevent potential drug interactions.
• Medical Alert: Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying a medical alert card indicating that you are taking Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection. This can be helpful in case of emergency situations where you may not be able to communicate your medical history.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection with your healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when using Aprepitant/Fosaprepitant Injection to ensure its safe and effective use. If you have any questions or concerns about the medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.