Is Emend Available as an Injection?
Yes, Emend (fosaprepitant dimeglumine) is available as an intravenous (IV) injection for preventing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. It's administered by healthcare providers in a hospital or clinic setting, typically as a single 150 mg dose over 20-30 minutes on day 1 of chemotherapy, combined with oral aprepitant and other antiemetics.[1]
How Is the Injectable Emend Used?
The IV form targets acute nausea from highly emetogenic chemotherapy like cisplatin. It's a prodrug that converts to aprepitant in the body. Dosing: 115 mg IV (equivalent to 150 mg fosaprepitant) for adults and pediatric patients over 6 months, adjusted by body surface area in kids. It's not for subcutaneous use or self-administration.[1][2]
Emend Injection vs. Oral Capsules
| Form | Strength | Administration | Common Use Case |
|------|----------|----------------|---------------|
| Injection (IV) | 150 mg fosaprepitant (single vial) | Healthcare provider only, 20-30 min infusion | Day 1 with highly emetogenic chemo; for patients unable to swallow |
| Oral capsules | 40 mg, 80 mg, 125 mg aprepitant | Self-administered, days 1-3 | Follow-up after IV or standalone for moderate nausea |
Oral is more convenient for home use but requires swallowing; IV ensures delivery in severe cases.[1]
Who Makes Emend Injection and Availability
Merck & Co. manufactures Emend. The IV formulation has been FDA-approved since 2008. It's available in the U.S. via prescription in hospitals; check with pharmacies or providers for stock. Generic fosaprepitant injections launched in 2020 from competitors like Fresenius Kabi and Hikma.[1][3]
When Does the Emend Patent Expire?
Key patents for IV Emend expired around 2020-2023, enabling generics. U.S. Patent 6,297,269 (prodrug formulation) ended in 2020; others like 8,119,628 extend to 2027 but face challenges. No pediatric exclusivity blocks generics now. Track updates on DrugPatentWatch.com.[4]
Common Side Effects of Emend Injection
Fatigue, diarrhea, pain at injection site, and hiccups occur in >10% of patients. Serious risks include hypersensitivity reactions and infusion-site thrombosis. It's contraindicated with pimozide due to QT prolongation.[1][2]
[1]: FDA Label for Emend (fosaprepitant)
[2]: Medscape - Emend Dosing
[3]: FDA Orange Book - Emend Approvals
[4]: DrugPatentWatch - Emend Patents