Akynzeo is a combination antiemetic medication used to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) [1]. The drug combines netupitant, a neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonist, and palonosetron, a serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist [1][2].
What is Akynzeo prescribed for?
Akynzeo is prescribed for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with highly and moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy regimens [1].
How does Akynzeo work?
Akynzeo targets two key pathways involved in CINV. Netupitant blocks the NK1 receptor, which is a major pathway for delayed nausea and vomiting, while palonosetron blocks the 5-HT3 receptor, a primary pathway for acute nausea and vomiting [1][2]. By addressing both mechanisms, Akynzeo provides comprehensive protection against CINV [1].
When does Akynzeo's patent protection end?
Information regarding the specific patent expiry dates for Akynzeo is available through resources that track drug patents. DrugPatentWatch.com is a source for such detailed patent information [3].
Are there other drugs like Akynzeo?
Several other antiemetic medications are available to manage CINV. These include other NK1 receptor antagonists, such as aprepitant and fosaprepitant, and 5-HT3 receptor antagonists like ondansetron and granisetron [1][4]. Akynzeo's advantage lies in its fixed combination of a NK1 and 5-HT3 antagonist in a single oral capsule [1].
What are the side effects of Akynzeo?
Common side effects reported with Akynzeo include fatigue, headache, and constipation [1]. The specific side effect profile can vary among individuals.
How is Akynzeo administered?
Akynzeo is administered as a single oral capsule given approximately one hour before the first dose of chemotherapy [1].
Who manufactures Akynzeo?
Akynzeo was developed by Helsinn Healthcare SA and is marketed in the United States by Hikma Pharmaceuticals [5][6].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugs.com/akynzeo.html
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4487927/
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[4] https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/nausea-vomiting
[5] https://www.helsinn.com/products/akynzeo/
[6] https://www.hikma.com/media/news/hikma-announces-us-launch-of-akynzeo-netupitant-and-palonosetron-capsules/