Emend IV (Fosaprepitant Dimeglumine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Emend IV Used For?
Emend IV is a medication that helps prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy treatments.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to manage nausea and vomiting related to cancer chemotherapy.
How It Works
Emend IV works by blocking the action of neurokinins in the brain that trigger nausea and vomiting.
Good to know: Emend IV is not addictive.
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How to Take Emend IV
Emend IV is given as an infusion by your doctor, typically before chemotherapy.
Dosage Instructions
The standard dosage is 150 mg administered intravenously over 20-30 minutes, approximately 30 minutes before chemotherapy.
What If You Miss a Dose?
Since Emend IV is given in a clinical setting, missed doses are not applicable.
Important: Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- tiredness
- muscle weakness
- headache
- dizziness
- constipation
- diarrhea
- indigestion
- heartburn
- loss of appetite
- gas
- hiccups
- vomiting
- disorientation
- chills
- hot flushes
- bloating
- pain on urination
- changes to walking pattern
- acne
- injection site pain
- hardening at the injection site
- redness and/or itching at the infusion site
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- slow, fast or irregular heartbeat
- severe upper stomach pain
- symptoms of severe sunburn
- signs of anemia
- frequent signs of infections
- infusion site reactions
- swelling of the face, lips, mouth, throat or tongue
- hives or nettlerash
- severe skin reactions
- serious decrease of blood pressure
Important Warnings
There are specific conditions and situations where Emend IV should not be used.
Who Should Not Take Emend IV
Do not use Emend IV if you have a known allergy to fosaprepitant dimeglumine or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Emend IV has not been studied in pregnant women and should only be used if necessary. Discuss breastfeeding with your doctor, as it is unknown if it passes into breast milk.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Emend IV, affecting its efficacy.
- cisapride
- pimozide
- terfenadine
- astemizole
- St John's Wort
- warfarin
- rifampicin
- ketoconazole
- oral contraceptive pills
- paroxetine
- diltiazem
- midazolam
- triazolam
- alprazolam
- dexamethasone
- methylprednisolone
- certain cancer chemotherapy agents
- tolbutamide
- phenytoin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when driving or operating machinery after receiving Emend IV.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while on Emend IV.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Emend IV may cause tiredness and dizziness in some individuals. Ensure you know how it affects you before driving.
Storage
Store Emend IV in a refrigerator at temperatures between 2-8°C, away from children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting your doctor or going to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
Emend IV is typically administered shortly before chemotherapy, and its effects can be felt during the treatment.
Emend IV is given intravenously and does not require food intake.
No, Emend IV is not addictive.
As Emend IV is administered in a clinical setting, stopping treatment should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption during treatment with Emend IV.
Weight gain is not listed as a side effect of Emend IV.
Elderly patients should discuss their overall health and any medications with their doctor before taking Emend IV.
Missed doses are not applicable as Emend IV is given in a clinical setting.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.