Aprepitant
Uses of Aprepitant
Aprepitant is commonly used to treat Nausea, Nausea And Vomiting Due To Chemotherapy, Vomiting
How Aprepitant Works
Aprepitant is a SP neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor antagonist. Which means it is an antiemetic that works by making the receptors more selective towards NK1 compared to other enzymes, ion channel, transporter or receptor that may induce nausea.
Side Effects of Aprepitant
Hiccups, Dizziness, Fatigueness, Constipation, Headache, Loss of appetite
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Aprepitant may be used in patients with kidney disease. Dosage adjustment is not necessary. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Safe
No available data on reactions between Aprepitant and alcohol. Small amount of alcohol, however, does not appear to affect the effectivitiy and safety of Aprepitant
Pregnancy Not Safe
Aprepitant may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Since there are limited human studies, it is inconclusive. It can be used only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the mother and fetus.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Aprepitant may cause side effects such as dizziness, headaches, fatigueness, all of which may affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
Aprepitant is safe in patients with liver disease. Dosage adjustment is not necessary in mild to moderate hepatic insufficiency patients. Patients with severe hepatic insufficiency however have limited data. Hence, please consult your doctor.
Lactation Limited Data
In animal study, Aprepitant is excreted into the milk of rats. However, there is no data available on human milk. Depending on other drugs consumed by the mother and its interaction with Aprepitant thus its excretion, it will be described upon careful consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
