FOSAPREPITANT DIMEGLUMINE
Background and Date of Approval
Fosaprepitant dimeglumine is an antiemetic medication approved by the U.S. FDA on 25 January 2008. It is used in combination with other medicines to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by certain types of chemotherapy, including highly and moderately emetogenic cancer treatments. Fosaprepitant is a prodrug of aprepitant, meaning it converts into the active form (aprepitant) after administration.
Uses
Fosaprepitant Dimeglumine is mainly used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, especially the strong types that are more likely to upset your stomach. When you're going through cancer treatment, feeling sick or throwing up can make things even harder. This medicine helps stop that from happening, so you can feel a bit more comfortable during your treatment.
How is it administered?
Fosaprepitant Dimeglumine is administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare provider. Standard dose: 150 mg given as a single IV infusion over 20 to 30 minutes, about 30 minutes before chemotherapy. The dosage and duration will be decided by your doctor based on your age, weight, and treatment type.
Side Effects
Common side effects: Headache Fatigue Constipation Indigestion Loss of appetite Hiccups Serious side effects (Seek immediate help): Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, skin peeling) Breathing difficulties Trouble swallowing Severe skin reactions at the injection site
Warnings
Before taking this medication, you need to inform your doctor if you have liver disorders, allergic conditions, or other diseases. Indigestion, tiredness, headache, and loss of appetite are the common side effects of fosaprepitant dimeglumine injection.
Precautions
Inform your doctor if you are allergic to fosaprepitant dimeglumine or any of the ingredients present in them or have kidney or muscle disorder. Inform your doctor about your prescribed and non-prescribed medicine and take a proper diet while under medication. It will be helpful for him to treat you based on your previous medical or make some dose adjustments.
Word of Advice
This injection must be administered by a healthcare professional only; do not self-administer. Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions, liver problems, kidney problems, or are taking other medications for different medical conditions. Consult your doctor if you are planning pregnancy or are a breastfeeding mother before taking this medication. Avoid driving and operating heavy machinery as this medication may cause dizziness. Patients may experience reduced concentration and alertness.
References
KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Antiemetic, Prokinetic and Digestant Drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 669-670. Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised date Feb 2016], [Accessed date 29th Nov 2021, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/022023s014lbl.pdf .Merck Sharp & Dome BV, European Medicines Compendium (emc), [Revised date May 2021], [Accessed date 29th Nov 2021], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5947.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fosaprepitant dimeglumine a chemotherapy medication?
It is an antiemetic medication that prevents nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy (cancer treatment).
Can fosaprepitant dimeglumine be given in children?
No, this injection is not recommended for children under six months of age or who weigh less than 6kg. Consult the doctor before taking this injection.
Can fosaprepitant dimeglumine be given for liver disorders?
This injection is used with caution in severe liver disorders, and dosage adjustment is required. Consult the doctor before taking this medication.
Can fosaprepitant dimeglumine be used in pregnancy?
No, it is not recommended in patients during pregnancy or who are planning for pregnancy as it causes harmful effects on the developing baby.
Can I drink while using fosaprepitant dimeglumine?
It is unsafe to use this medication while consuming alcohol because it reduces the effectiveness of the medicine.
Can I drive after using fosaprepitant dimeglumine?
No, avoid driving, as this medication can cause dizziness. Patients may lack concentration and alertness.