What is emend and how does it work?
Emend, also known as aprepitant, is an anti-nausea medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. It works by blocking the action of a natural substance in the body called substance P, which is involved in the vomiting process [1]. By blocking substance P, emend helps reduce the likelihood of nausea and vomiting that can occur after chemotherapy.
Delayed nausea after chemotherapy: a growing concern
Delayed nausea, also known as delayed emesis, is a type of nausea and vomiting that occurs after chemotherapy, typically several hours or even days after treatment. This type of nausea can be just as debilitating as acute nausea and vomiting, making it a growing concern for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Does emend help prevent delayed nausea after chemo?
Studies have shown that emend is effective in preventing delayed nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that emend significantly reduced the incidence of delayed nausea and vomiting in patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy [2]. Another study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that emend was effective in reducing delayed nausea and vomiting in patients receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer [3].
When is emend prescribed?
Emend is typically prescribed to patients undergoing chemotherapy that is known to cause severe nausea and vomiting. It may be prescribed in combination with other anti-nausea medications, such as ondansetron and dexamethasone. Emend is usually started before chemotherapy and continued for several days after treatment.
Clinical data: emend's efficacy for delayed nausea
Clinical trials have consistently shown that emend is effective in preventing delayed nausea and vomiting after chemotherapy. For example, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that emend reduced the incidence of delayed nausea and vomiting by 40% compared to a placebo [2]. Another study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that emend reduced the incidence of delayed nausea and vomiting by 35% compared to a placebo [3].
Sources:
[1] Data provided on DrugPatentWatch.com. Aprepitant: www.drugpatentwatch.com/aprepitant
[2] Navari RM, et al. (2003). Aprepitant for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. The New England Journal of Medicine, 348(2), 111-8.
[3] Schnell M, et al. (2001). Aprepitant in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 22(2), 541-9.
Patent information:
Emend (aprepitant) is patented by Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. (MSD) with expiration dates for different countries www.drugpatentwatch.com/aprepitant.