Akynzeo (Netupitant/Palonosetron) is a prescription medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy in cancer patients. Chemotherapy stops cancer cells from reproducing, preventing them from growing and spreading in the body. However, the treatment stimulates the vomiting center in the brain, making you feel or be sick. The active ingredients in Akynzeo are Netupitant and Palonosetron. Netupitant belongs to a class of drugs called neurokinin (NK1) antagonists. Palonosetron belongs to a class of medications called 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. It works by blocking neurokinin, a natural substance in the brain that causes nausea and vomiting.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Akynzeo from Canada manufactured by Purdue and from Australia by another manufacturer in the strength of 300mg/0.5mg capsules. The generic Netupitant/Palonosetron is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Akynzeo. The most common side effects of Akynzeo may include the following:
• Constipation;
• Headache;
• Skin redness;
• Tiredness or feeling weak;
• Upset stomach
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Agitation;
• Breathing difficulties;
• Chest pain;
• Fast heart rate;
• Hallucinations;
• Loss of coordination;
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
These are not all of the side effects of Akynzeo. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Akynzeo if you are allergic to Netupitant, Palonosetron, or any ingredient in Akynzeo. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Have a blockage in your gut;
• Have a family history of QT interval prolongation;
• Have an electrolyte imbalance such as potassium and magnesium;
• Have heart problems;
• Have intolerance to certain sugars such as lactose intolerace;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Akynzeo and other medicines, especially those used to treat depression or anxiety. Avoid amiodarone, cyclosporine, etoposide, erythromycin, midazolam, rifampicin, ketoconazole, or dexamethasone with Akynzeo. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Do not take Akynzeo if you are pregnant or a woman of childbearing potential not using contraception. This drug may harm a fetus. It is not known if Akynzeo is excreted in breast milk. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Take Akynzeo precisely as prescribed by your doctor. You can take this drug with or without food. Use Akynzeo capsule about one hour before you start your chemotherapy cycle. Akynzeo is taken before chemotherapy to prevent sickness and feelings of sickness. Do not take the drug in the days after you have chemotherapy, except if you are about to have another chemotherapy cycle. Do not stop taking this drug without informing your doctor. If you stop the drug, your chemotherapy is likely to make you feel sick or be sick. You may feel dizzy or tired after taking Akynzeo. Do not drive or use machines if this happens. Keep this medicine out of sight and reach of children. Consult your doctor if your symptoms got worse or last longer than expected.
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