Oncology Essentials

Benefits and Risks of Fosaprepitant in Patients Receiving Emetogenic Regimens

Wendy Pritchett

Karen Kinsley

antiemetic, infusion site reaction, phlebitis, hypersensitivity reaction
CJON 2016, 20(5), 555-556. DOI: 10.1188/16.CJON.555-556

Fosaprepitant dimeglumine (Emend IV®) is an IV antiemetic that may be beneficial to patients receiving highly emetogenic regimens. Aprepitant (Emend®) is an oral medication that is administered for three consecutive days, whereas fosaprepitant is a single-dose IV medication that is administered on the day of chemotherapy for 20–30 minutes (depending on the IV access type). Fosaprepitant may be useful, yet it can also present a risk for hypersensitivity reactions and phlebitis. Oncology nurses must be aware of the signs and symptoms of these potential adverse events to properly care for their patients. 

At a Glance

  • When used before emetogenic chemotherapy regimens, fosaprepitant dimeglumine (Emend IV®) may help to prevent acute and delayed nausea and vomiting.
  • Infusion site adverse events related to fosaprepitant may include phlebitis, erythema, pain, swelling, and local reaction.
  • Hypersensitivity reactions with the use of fosaprepitant are rare.
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