Fosaprepitant: A Comprehensive Medication Profile

Summary or Key Points

Fosaprepitant is a medication primarily used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. It is a part of a broader group of drugs known as antiemetics. This guide will provide comprehensive information about the medication, including its dosing, potential side effects, and administration instructions. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your medication, or schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Emend (Fosaprepitant)

In smaller font size: The term ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name of the drug, in this case, ‘Fosaprepitant’. It’s common for medications to have both a brand name (Emend) and a generic name (Fosaprepitant), with the latter provided in parenthesis.

Pharmacologic Category

Fosaprepitant belongs to the pharmacologic category known as NK1 receptor antagonists. Other medications in this category include Aprepitant (Emend) and Rolapitant (Varubi).

Dosing

Fosaprepitant is indicated to prevent Nausea and Vomiting caused by chemotherapy. The dose typically used for adults is a single dose of 150 mg administered prior to chemotherapy. Please note that treatment plans are individual and should always be directed by your healthcare provider. Consult with one of our providers through our convenient telemedicine service if you have any questions about your medication.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

• Fosaprepitant for injection: 150 mg/vial

Administration Instructions

Fosaprepitant is administered intravenously before chemotherapy treatments. It should be given as a single dose infusion over 20-30 minutes. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions when taking this medication. If you have any questions or concerns, our telemedicine providers are available to guide you.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like all medications, Fosaprepitant can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences them, but it’s important to be aware of what to look for. The most common side effects include:

• Diarrhea (common)
• Tiredness (common)
• Decreased appetite (common)
• Headache (common)

If you experience any side effects, reach out to your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers right away.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition in which a particular drug or treatment should not be used because it may be harmful. Fosaprepitant should not be taken by individuals who have a hypersensitivity or severe allergic reaction to Fosaprepitant or any of its components. The use of Fosaprepitant is also contraindicated in individuals taking pimozide (Orap), a medication used to treat certain mental/mood disorders. This is due to the risk of serious drug interactions.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Fosaprepitant can interact with several medications, including:

• Warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)
• Tolbutamide (Orinase)
• Dexamethasone (Decadron)
• Pimozide (Orap)

If you are taking any of these medications, please discuss with your healthcare provider or contact one of our telemedicine providers for guidance.

Fosaprepitant in Pregnancy

There is limited data on the use of Fosaprepitant during pregnancy. Therefore, it should only be used if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus. Always consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers for advice if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Fosaprepitant while Breastfeeding

It is currently unknown whether Fosaprepitant is excreted in human breast milk. A decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Consult your healthcare provider or our telemedicine providers for advice.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Fosaprepitant without insurance, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $200. Costs may vary depending on your location and the pharmacy you choose. Be sure to discuss any cost concerns with your healthcare provider or our telemedicine providers, as financial assistance may be available.

Possible Alternatives

For Nausea and Vomiting caused by chemotherapy, alternative treatments may include other medications like Ondansetron (Zofran), Dronabinol (Marinol), or natural remedies such as ginger or peppermint. Lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, may also help. Always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider or our telemedicine providers before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Recent Updates on Fosaprepitant Research

Recent research indicates that Fosaprepitant may be useful in other areas, such as the treatment of pruritus (itching) in patients with chronic kidney disease. As with all medications, ongoing research continues to explore new uses and benefits of Fosaprepitant. If you have any questions about the latest research, our telemedicine providers are always available to discuss your concerns.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.