Emend is a prescription medication that is used to prevent nausea and vomiting in patients that are undergoing chemotherapy. Emend contains the drug aprepitant and works by blocking the actions of certain chemicals in the body that can cause nausea or vomiting. Emend should be taken in advance and will not treat existing nausea or vomiting.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Emend should be taken orally with or without food.
• Emend is a short-term medication. Typically, patients need between 1 and 3 doses.
• Swallow this medication whole without chewing or crushing.
• Emend is typically taken 30-60 before chemotherapy treatment.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of liver disease.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• If you are breast-feeding.

You should also know:

• Emend can lessen the effects of birth control pills. Speak to your doctor about suitable methods of birth control while taking Emend and for one month afterwards.
• Emend interacts with many other drugs. Do not start taking any new prescription or over the counter medications without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Emend include but are not limited to:

• Dehydration.
• Headaches.
• Dizziness.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Stomach pain, burping, or indigestion.
• Loss of appetite.
• Coughing.
• Arm or leg pain.
• Feeling weak or tired.
• Hiccups.
• Abnormal liver function tests.
• Low blood cell counts.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of aprepitant:

• Painful or burning urination.
• Sores or white patches in the mouth or throat.
• Sore throat.
• Feeling lightheaded or like you might pass out.
• Signs of dehydration including feeling thirsty or hot, difficulty urinating, heavy sweating, or having hot or dry skin.
• Signs of a low blood cell count including fever, chills, easy bruising, unusual bleeding, pale skin, cold hands and feet, mouth or skin sores, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Emend?

Call your doctor if you miss your dose of Emend.

What is the strength of Emend?

Emend is available in strengths of 80mg and 125mg.