Prescribing information for Eisai's Akynzeo (fosnetupitant/palonosetron) is available for healthcare professionals. Akynzeo is a combination antiemetic used for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with highly and moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy [1].
How does Akynzeo work?
Akynzeo combines two active ingredients: palonosetron and netupitant [1]. Palonosetron is a selective, second-generation 5-HT3 receptor antagonist. It works by blocking serotonin, a substance in the body that can cause nausea and vomiting [2]. Netupitant is a selective NK1 receptor antagonist. It works by blocking substance P, another substance that can trigger nausea and vomiting, particularly delayed nausea and vomiting [3]. By targeting both the serotonin (5-HT3) and neurokinin-1 (NK1) pathways, Akynzeo provides a dual mechanism to help prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) [1][2][3].
What is Akynzeo prescribed for?
Akynzeo is indicated for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (HEC) and moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (MEC) [1]. This includes cisplatin-based regimens [4].
What are the recommended doses of Akynzeo?
For adults, the recommended dose of Akynzeo is a single intravenous infusion of 300 mg netupitant and 0.5 mg palonosetron (administered as 1 mL of fosnetupitant/palonosetron 300 mg/0.5 mg solution) given approximately 30 minutes before the first dose of emetogenic chemotherapy [1].
What are the potential side effects of Akynzeo?
Common side effects of Akynzeo reported in clinical trials include headache, constipation, fatigue, and infusion-related reactions [1]. More serious, though less common, side effects can occur. Patients should report any new or worsening symptoms to their doctor immediately [1].
What is the clinical trial data supporting Akynzeo's use?
Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Akynzeo in preventing CINV. In studies involving highly emetogenic chemotherapy, Akynzeo showed a statistically significant improvement in complete response rates compared to palonosetron alone, particularly in the delayed phase (24 to 120 hours post-chemotherapy) [4][5]. Similar benefits were observed in trials with moderately emetogenic chemotherapy [5].
Can Akynzeo be used with other antiemetics?
Akynzeo is typically administered in combination with a corticosteroid, such as dexamethasone, and optionally a 5-HT3 antagonist, for a comprehensive CINV prevention regimen [1]. The specific combination regimen should be determined by the treating physician.
What are the contraindications for Akynzeo?
Akynzeo is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to netupitant, palonosetron, or any of its components [1].
When does the patent for Akynzeo expire?
Information regarding patent expiry for Akynzeo can be found on specialized drug patent databases such as DrugPatentWatch.com [6]. These resources track patent statuses and expiration dates, which are crucial for understanding when generic versions may become available.
Who manufactures Akynzeo?
Akynzeo is manufactured by Eisai [1].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/akynzeo
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/palonosetron
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/netupitant
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4377657/
[5] https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.2016.67.2077
[6] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/