Aprepitant
Capsule · Oral
Uses
Aprepitant is a substance P/neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor antagonist. Aprepitant capsules are indicated
• in combination with other antiemetic agents, in patients 12 years of age and older for prevention of: o acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (HEC) including high-dose cisplatin ( 1.1 ) o nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (MEC) ( 1.1 )
• for prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in adults ( 1.2 ) Limitations of Use : ( 1.3 )
• Aprepitant has not been studied for treatment of established nausea and vomiting.
• Chronic continuous administration of aprepitant is not recommended. 1.1 Prevention of Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) Aprepitant capsules, in combination with other antiemetic agents, is indicated in patients 12 years of age and older for the prevention of: acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associted with initial and repeat courses of highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (HEC) including high-dose cisplatin. nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (MEC). 1.2 Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) Aprepitant capsules are indicated in adults for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting. 1.3 Limitations of Use Aprepitant has not been studied for the treatment of established nausea and vomiting. Chronic continuous administration of Aprepitant is not recommended because it has not been studied, and because the drug interaction profile may change during chronic continuous use.
Dosage and administration
Recommended Dosage for Prevention of Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) ( 2.1 )
• Aprepitant capsules in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older: is 125 mg on Day 1 and 80 mg on Days 2 and 3.
• Administer aprepitant 1 hour prior to chemotherapy on Days 1, 2, and 3. If no chemotherapy is given on Days 2 and 3, administer aprepitant in morning. See Full Prescribing Information for recommended dosages of concomitant dexamethasone and 5-HT 3 antagonist for HEC and MEC. Recommended Dosage for PONV ( 2.2 )
• Adults: 40 mg Aprepitant capsules within 3 hours prior to induction of anesthesia. Preparation and Administration ( 2.3 )
• Aprepitant capsules can be administered with or without food.
• Swallow aprepitant capsules whole.
• For details on preparation see Full Prescribing Information. 2.1 Prevention of Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) Adults and Pediatric Patients 12 Years of Age and Older The recommended oral dosage of aprepitant capsules, dexamethasone, and a 5-HT 3 antagonist in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older who can swallow oral capsules, for the prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with administration of HEC or MEC is shown in Table 1 or Table 2, respectively. Table 1: Recommended Dosing for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Associated with HEC * Administer aprepitant capsules 1 hour prior to chemotherapy treatment on Days 1, 2, and 3. If no chemotherapy is given on Days 2 and 3, administer aprepitant capsules in the morning. †Administer dexamethasone 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy treatment on Day 1 and in the morning on Days 2 through 4. A 50% dosage reduction of dexamethasone is recommended to account for a drug interaction with aprepitant [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3 )] . Population Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Aprepitant capsules* Adults and Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older 125 mg orally 80 mg orally 80 mg orally none Dexamethasone Adults 12 mg orally 8 mg orally 8 mg orally 8 mg orally Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older If a corticosteroid, such as dexamethasone, is co-administered, administer 50% of the recommended corticosteroid dose on Days 1 through 4 [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )].† 5-HT3 antagonist Adults and Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older See selected 5-HT3 antagonist prescribing information for the recommended dosage none none none Table 2: Recommended Dosing for the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Associated with MEC * Administer aprepitant capsules 1 hour prior to chemotherapy treatment on Days 1, 2, and 3. If no chemotherapy is given on Days 2 and 3, administer aprepitant capsules in the morning. † Administer dexamethasone 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy treatment on Day 1. A 50% dosage reduction of dexamethasone is recommended to account for a drug interaction with aprepitant [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Population Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Aprepitant capsules* Adults and Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older 125 mg orally 80 mg orally 80 mg orally Dexamethasone Adults 12 mg orally none none Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older If a corticosteroid, such as dexamethasone, is co-administered, administer 50% of the recommended corticosteroid dose on Days 1 through 4 [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )].† 5-HT3 antagonist Adults and Pediatric Patients 12 Years and Older See selected 5-HT 3 antagonist prescribing information for the recommended dosage none none 2.2 Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) The recommended oral dosage of aprepitant capsules is 40 mg within 30 hours prior to induction of anesthesia. 2.3 Administration Instructions Aprepitant capsules can be administered with or without food Aprepitant capsules Swallow capsules whole
Dosage forms and strengths
Aprepitant capsules, USP:
• 40 mg: white body and yellow cap with "40 mg" printed in black ink on the body.
• 80 mg: white body and white cap with "80 mg" printed in black ink on the body.
• 125 mg: white body and pink cap with "125 mg" printed in black ink on the body. Aprepitant capsules, USP: 40 mg; 80 mg; 125 mg ( 3 ).
Contraindications
Aprepitant is contraindicated in patients:
• who are hypersensitive to any component of the product. Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylactic reactions have been reported [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .
• taking pimozide. Inhibition of CYP3A4 by aprepitant could result in elevated plasma concentrations of this drug which is a CYP3A4 substrate, potentially causing serious or life-threatening reactions, such as QT prolongation, a known adverse reaction of pimozide [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .
• Known hypersensitivity to any component of this drug. ( 4 )
• Concurrent use with pimozide. ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
• CYP3A4 Interactions : Aprepitant is a substrate, weak-to-moderate inhibitor and inducer of CYP3A4; See Full Prescribing Information for recommendations regarding contraindications, risk of adverse reactions, and dosage adjustments of aprepitant and concomitant drugs. ( 4 , 5.1 , 7.1 , 7.2 )
• Warfarin (a CYP2C9 substrate) : Risk of decreased INR of prothrombin time; monitor INR in 2-week period, particularly at 7 to 10 days, following initiation of aprepitant. ( 5.2 , 7.1 )
• Hormonal Contraceptives : Efficacy of contraceptives may be reduced during administration of and for 28 days following the last dose of aprepitant. Use effective alternative or back-up methods of contraception. ( 5.3 , 7.1 , 8.3 ) 5.1 Clinically Significant CYP3A4 Aprepitant is a substrate, a weak-to-moderate (dose-dependent) inhibitor, and an inducer of CYP3A4. Use of aprepitant with other drugs that are CYP3A4 substrates, may result in increased plasma concentration of the concomitant drug. Use of pimozide with aprepitant is contraindicated due to the risk of significantly increased plasma concentrations of pimozide, potentially resulting in prolongation of the QT interval, a known adverse reaction of pimozide [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Use of aprepitant with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, diltiazem) may increase plasma conentrations of aprepitant and result in an increased risk of adverse reactions related to aprepitant. Use of aprepitant with strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin) may result in a reduction in aprepitant plasma concentrations and decreased efficacy of aprepitant. See table 10 and 11 for a listing of potentially significant drug interactions [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 , 7.2 )] . 5.2 Decrease in INR with Concomitant Warfarin Coadministration of aprepitant with warfarin, a CYP2C9 substrate, may result in a clinically significant decrease in International Normalized Ratio (INR) of prothrombin time [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Monitor the INR in patients on chronic warfarin therapy in the 2-week period, particularly at 7 to 10 days, following initiation of the 3-day regimen of aprepitant with each chemotherapy cycle, or following administration of a single 40-mg dose of aprepitant for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )]. 5.3 Risk of Reduced Efficacy of Hormonal Contraceptives Upon coadministration with aprepitant, the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced during administration of and for 28 days following the last dose of aprepitant [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. Advise patients to use effective alternative or back-up methods of contraception during treatment with aprepitant and for 1 month following the last dose of aprepitant [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.3 )].
Side effects
Most common adverse reactions (≥3%) are ( 6.1 ): Prevention of Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV)
• Adults: fatigue, diarrhea, asthenia, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, hiccups, white blood cell count decreased, dehydration, and alanine aminotransferase increased.
• Pediatrics: neutropenia, headache, diarrhea, decreased appetite, cough, fatigue, hemoglobin decreased, dizziness, and hiccups. PONV
• Adults: constipation and hypotension. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Torrent Pharma Inc. at 1-800-912-9561 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. The overall safety of aprepitant was evaluated in approximately 6,800 individuals. Adverse Reactions in Adults in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Associated with HEC and MEC In 2 active-controlled, double-blind clinical trials in patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) (Studies 1 and 2), aprepitant in combination with ondansetron and dexamethasone (aprepitant regimen) was compared to ondansetron and dexamethasone alone (standard therapy [see Clinical Studies ( 14.1 )]. In 2 active-controlled clinical trials in patients receiving moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC) (Studies 3 and 4), aprepitant in combination with ondasetron and dexamethasone (aprepitant regimen) was compared to ondansetron and dexamethasone alone (standard therapy) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . The most common adverse reaction reported in patients who received MEC in pooled Studies 3 and 4 was dyspepsia (6% versus 4%). Across these 4 studies there were 1,412 patients treated with the aprepitant regimen during Cycle 1 of chemotherapy and 1,099 of these patients continued into the Mutliplwe-Cycle extension for up to 6 cycles of chemotherapy. The most common adverse reactions reported in patients who received HEC and MEC in pooled Studies 1, 2, 3 and 4 are listed in Table 5. Table 5: Most Common Adverse Reactions in Patients Receiving HEC and MEC from a Pooled Analysis of HEC and MEC Studies* *Reported in ≥3% of patients treated with the Aprepitant regimen and at a greater incidence than standard therapy. † Aprepitant regimen ‡ Standard therapy Aprepitant , ondansetron, and dexamethasone † (N=1,412) Ondansetron and dexamethasone ‡ (N=1,396) fatigue 13% 12% diarrhea 9% 8% asthenia 7% 6% dyspepsia 7% 5% abdominal pain 6% 5% hiccups 5% 3% white blood cell count decreased 4% 3% dehydration 3% 2% alanine aminotransferase increased 3% 2% In a pooled analysis of the HEC and MEC studies, less common adverse reactions reported in patients with the aprepitant regimen are listed in Table 6. Table 6: Less Common Adverse Reactions in Aprepitant-Treated Patients from a Pooled Analysis of HEC and MEC Studies* * Reported in >0.5% of patients treated with the aprepitant regimen, at a greater incidence than standard therapy and not previously described in Table 5. Infection and Infestations oral candidiasis, pharyngitis Blood and the Lymphatic System Disorders anemia, febrile neutropenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders decreased appetite, hypokalemia Psychiatric Disorders anxiety Nervous System Disorders dizziness, dysgeusia, peripheral neuropathy Cardiac Disorders palpitations Vascular Disorders flushing, hot flush Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders cough, dyspnea, oropharyngeal pain Gastrointestinal Disorders dry mouth, eructation, flatulence, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, nausea, vomiting Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders alopecia, hyperhidrosis, rash Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders musculoskeletal pain General Disorders and Administration Site Condition edema peripheral, malaise Investigations aspartate aminotransferase increased, blood alkaline phosphatase increased, blood sodium decreased, blood urea increased, proteinuria, weight decreased In additional active-controlled clinical study 1,169 patients receiving aprepitant and HEC, the adverse reactions were generally similar to that seen in the other HEC studies with aprepitant. In another CINV study, Stevens-Johnson syndrome was reported as a serious adverse reaction in a patient receiving the aprepitant regimen with cancer chemotherapy. Adverse reactions in the Multiple-Cycle extensions of HEC and MEC studies for up to 6 cycles of chemotherapy were generally similar to that observed in Cycle 1. Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients 6 Months to 17 Years of Age in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Associated with HEC or MEC In a pooled analysis of 2 active-controlled clinical trials in pediatric patients aged 6 months to 17 years who received highly or moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (Study 5 and a safety study, Study 6), aprepitant in combination with ondansetron with or without dexamethasone (aprepitant regimen) was compared to ondansetron with or without dexamethasone (control regimen). There were 184 patients treated with the aprepitant regimen during Cycle 1 and 215 patients received open-label aprepitant for up to 9 additional cycles of chemotherapy. In Cycle 1, the most common adverse reactions reported in pediatric patients treated with the aprepitant regimen in pooled Studies 5 and 6 are listed in Table 7. Table 7: Most Common Adverse Reactions in Aprepitant-Treated Pediatric Patients in HEC and MEC Pooled Studies 5 and 6* * Reported in ≥3% of patients treated with the aprepitant regimen and at a greater incidence than control regimen.
Drug interactions
See Full Prescribing Information for a list of clinically significant drug interactions. ( 4 , 5.1 , 5.2 , 5.3 , 7.1 , 7.2 ) 7.1 Effect of Aprepitant on the Pharmacokinetics of Other Drugs Aprepitant is a substrate, a weak-to-moderate (dose-dependent) inhibitor, and an inducer of CYP3A4. Aprepitant is also an inducer of CYP2C9 [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Aprepitant acts as a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 when administered as a 3-day regimen (125mg/80-mg/80-mg) and can increase plasma concentrations of concomitant drugs that are substrates for CYP3A4. Aprepitant acts as a weak inhibitor when administered as a single 40-mg dose and has not been shown to alter the plasma concentrations of concomitant drugs that are primarily metabolized through CYP3A4. Some substrates of CYP3A4 are contraindicated with aprepitant [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Dosage adjustment of some CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 substrates may be warranted, as shown in Table 10. Table 10: Effects of Aprepitant on the Pharmacokinetics of Other Drugs CYP3A4 Substrates Pimozide Clinical Impact Increased pimozide exposure Intervention Aprepitant is contraindicated [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Benzodiazepines Clinical Impact Increased exposure to midazolam or other benzodiazepines metabolized via CYP3A4 (alprazolam, triazolam) may increase the risk of adverse reactions [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. Intervention 3-day aprepitant regimen Monitor for benzodiazepine-related adverse reactions. Depending on the clinical situation (e.g., elderly patients) and degree of monitoring available, reduce the dose of intravenous midazolam Single 40 mg dose of aprepitant No dosage adjustment of the benzodiazepine needed Dexamethasone Clinical Impact Increased dexamethasone exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. Intervention 3-day aprepitant regimen Reduce the dose of oral dexamethasone by approximately 50% [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 )]. Single 40 mg dose of aprepitant No dosage adjustment of oral dexamethasone needed Methylprednisolone Clinical Impact Increased methylprednisolone exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. Intervention 3-day aprepitant regimen Reduce the dose of intravenous methylprednisolone by approximately 25% Reduce the dose of oral methylprednisolone by approximately 50% Single 40 mg dose of aprepitant No dosage adjustment of methylprednisolone needed Chemotherapeutic agents that are metabolized by CYP3A4 Clinical Impact Increased exposure of the chemotherapeutic agent may increase the risk of adverse reactions [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Intervention Vinblastine, vincristine, or ifosfamide or other chemotherapeutic agents Monitor for chemotherapeutic-related adverse reactions. Etoposide, vinorelbine, paclitaxel, and docetaxel No dosage adjustment needed. Hormonal Contraceptives Clinical Impact Decreased hormonal exposure during administration of and for 28 days after administration of the last dose of aprepitant [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.3 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Intervention Effective alternative or back-up methods of contraception (such as condoms and spermicides) should be used during treatment with aprepitant and for 1 month following the last dose of aprepitant. Examples birth control pills, skin patches, implants, and certain IUDs CYP2C9 Substrates Warfarin Clinical Impact Decreased warfarin exposure and decreased prothrombin time (INR) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Intervention In patients on chronic warfarin therapy, monitor the prothrombin time (INR) in the 2-week period, particularly at 7 to 10 days, following initiation of the 3-day aprepitant regimen with each chemotherapy cycle, or following administration of a single 40-mg dose of aprepitant. Other 5-HT 3 Antagonists Clinical Impact No change in the exposure of the 5-HT 3 antagonist [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Intervention No dosage adjustment needed Examples ondansetron, granisetron, dolasetron 7.2 Effect of Other Drugs on the Pharmacokinetics of Aprepitant Aprepitant is a CYP3A4 substrate [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Co-administration of aprepitant with drugs that are inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4 may result in increased or decreased plasma concentrations of aprepitant, respectively, as shown in Table 11. Table 11: Effects of Other Drugs on Pharmacokinetics of Aprepitant Moderate to Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors Clinical Impact Significantly increased exposure of aprepitant may increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with aprepitant [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Intervention Avoid concomitant use of aprepitant Examples Moderate inhibitor: diltiazem Strong inhibitors: ketoconazole, itraconazole, nefazodone, troleandomycin, clarithromycin, ritonavir, nelfinavir Strong CYP3A4 Inducers Clinical Impact Substantially decreased exposure of aprepitant in patients chronically taking a strong CYP3A4 inducer may decrease the efficacy of aprepitant [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Intervention Avoid concomitant use of aprepitant Examples rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin
Use in specific populations
8.1 PREGNANCY Risk Summary There are insufficient data on use of aprepitant in pregnant women to inform a drug associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed in rats or rabbits exposed during the period of organogenesis to systemic drug levels (AUC) approximately 1.5 times the adult human exposure at the 125-mg/80-mg/ 80-mg aprepitant regimen [see Data] . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data In embryofetal development studies in rats and rabbits, aprepitant was administered during the period of organogenesis at oral doses up to 1,000 mg/kg twice daily in rats and up to the maximum tolerated dose of 25 mg/kg/day in rabbits. No embryofetal lethality or malformations were observed at any dose level in either species. The exposures (AUC) in pregnant rats at 1,000 mg/kg twice daily and in pregnant rabbits at 125 mg/kg/day were approximately 1.5 times the adult exposure at the 125-mg/80mg/80-mg aprepitant regimen. Aprepitant crosses the placenta in rats and rabbits. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Lactation studies have not been conducted to assess the presence of aprepitant in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Aprepitant is present in rat milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for aprepitant and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from aprepitant or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Contraception Upon administration of aprepitant, the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives may be reduced. Advise females of reproductive potential using hormonal contraceptives to use an effective alternative or back-up non-hormonal contraceptive (such as condoms and spermicides) during treatment with aprepitant and for 1 month following the last dose [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 ), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . 8.4 Pediatric Use Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Associated with HEC or MEC The safety and effectiveness of aprepitant capsules in pediatric patients 12 years of age and older for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of HEC, including high-dose cisplatin, and MEC. Use of aprepitant in these age groups is supported by evidence from 302 pediatric patients in a randomized, double-blind, active comparator controlled clinical study (n=207 patients aged 6 months to less than 12 years, n=95 patients aged 12 through 17 years). Aprepitant was studied in combination with ondansetron with or without dexamethasone (at the discretion of the physician) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Adverse reactions were similar to those reported in adult patients [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . The safety and effectiveness of aprepitant for the prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with HEC or MEC have not been established in patients less than 6 months. Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) The safety and effectiveness of aprepitant have not been established for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting in pediatric patients. Juvenile Animal Study A study was conducted in young rats to evaluate the effects of aprepitant on growth and on neurobehavioral and sexual development. Rats were treated at oral doses up to the maximum feasible dose of 1,000 mg/kg twice daily (providing exposure in male rats lower than the exposure at the recommended pediatric human dose and exposure in female rats equivalent to the pediatric human exposure) from the early postnatal period (Postnatal Day 10) through Postnatal Day 58. Slight changes in the onset of sexual maturation were observed in female and male rats; however, there were no effects on mating, fertility, embryonic-fetal survival, or histomorphology of the reproductive organs. There were no effects in neurobehavioral tests of sensory function, motor function, and learning and memory. 8.5 Geriatric Use Of the 544 adult cancer patients treated with aprepitant in CINV clinical studies, 31% were aged 65 and over, while 5% were aged 75 and over. Of the 1,120 adult cancer patients treated with aprepitant in PONV clinical studies, 7% were aged 65 and over, while 2% were aged 75 and over. Other reported clinical experience with aprepitant has not identified differences in responses between elderly and younger patients. In general, use caution when dosing elderly patients as they have a greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function and concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . 8.6 Patients with Renal Impairment The pharmacokinetics of aprepitant in patients with severe renal impairment and those with end stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring hemodialysis were similar to those of healthy subjects with normal renal function. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with any degree of renal impairment or for patients with ESRD undergoing hemodialysis. 8.7 Patients with Hepatic Impairment The pharmacokinetics of aprepitant in patients with mild and moderate hepatic impairment were similar to those of healthy subjects with normal hepatic function. No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score 5 to 9). There are no clinical or pharmacokinetic data in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score greater than 9). Therefore, additional monitoring for adverse reactions in these patients may be warranted when aprepitant is administered [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] .
Pregnancy
Risk Summary There are insufficient data on use of aprepitant in pregnant women to inform a drug associated risk. In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed in rats or rabbits exposed during the period of organogenesis to systemic drug levels (AUC) approximately 1.5 times the adult human exposure at the 125-mg/80-mg/ 80-mg aprepitant regimen [see Data] . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data In embryofetal development studies in rats and rabbits, aprepitant was administered during the period of organogenesis at oral doses up to 1,000 mg/kg twice daily in rats and up to the maximum tolerated dose of 25 mg/kg/day in rabbits. No embryofetal lethality or malformations were observed at any dose level in either species. The exposures (AUC) in pregnant rats at 1,000 mg/kg twice daily and in pregnant rabbits at 125 mg/kg/day were approximately 1.5 times the adult exposure at the 125-mg/80mg/80-mg aprepitant regimen. Aprepitant crosses the placenta in rats and rabbits.
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Associated with HEC or MEC The safety and effectiveness of aprepitant capsules in pediatric patients 12 years of age and older for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of HEC, including high-dose cisplatin, and MEC. Use of aprepitant in these age groups is supported by evidence from 302 pediatric patients in a randomized, double-blind, active comparator controlled clinical study (n=207 patients aged 6 months to less than 12 years, n=95 patients aged 12 through 17 years). Aprepitant was studied in combination with ondansetron with or without dexamethasone (at the discretion of the physician) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3 )] . Adverse reactions were similar to those reported in adult patients [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . The safety and effectiveness of aprepitant for the prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with HEC or MEC have not been established in patients less than 6 months. Prevention of Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV) The safety and effectiveness of aprepitant have not been established for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting in pediatric patients. Juvenile Animal Study A study was conducted in young rats to evaluate the effects of aprepitant on growth and on neurobehavioral and sexual development. Rats were treated at oral doses up to the maximum feasible dose of 1,000 mg/kg twice daily (providing exposure in male rats lower than the exposure at the recommended pediatric human dose and exposure in female rats equivalent to the pediatric human exposure) from the early postnatal period (Postnatal Day 10) through Postnatal Day 58. Slight changes in the onset of sexual maturation were observed in female and male rats; however, there were no effects on mating, fertility, embryonic-fetal survival, or histomorphology of the reproductive organs. There were no effects in neurobehavioral tests of sensory function, motor function, and learning and memory.
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Of the 544 adult cancer patients treated with aprepitant in CINV clinical studies, 31% were aged 65 and over, while 5% were aged 75 and over. Of the 1,120 adult cancer patients treated with aprepitant in PONV clinical studies, 7% were aged 65 and over, while 2% were aged 75 and over. Other reported clinical experience with aprepitant has not identified differences in responses between elderly and younger patients. In general, use caution when dosing elderly patients as they have a greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function and concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] .
Overdosage
No specific information is available on the treatment of overdosage. Drowsiness and headache were reported in one patient who ingested 1,440 mg of aprepitant (approximately 11 times the maximum recommended single dose). In the event of overdose, aprepitant should be discontinued and general supportive treatment and monitoring should be provided. Because of the antiemetic activity of aprepitant, drug-induced emesis may not be effective in cases of aprepitant overdosage. Aprepitant is not removed by hemodialysis.
Description
Aprepitant capsules, USP contain the active ingredient, aprepitant, USP. Aprepitant, USP is a substance P/neurokinin 1 (NK 1 ) receptor antagonist, an antiemetic agent, chemically described as 5-[[(2 R ,3 S )-2-[(1 R )-1-[3,5bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethoxy]-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-4-morpholinyl]methyl]-1,2-dihydro-3 H -1,2,4-triazol-3one. Its empirical formula is C 23 H 21 F 7 N 4 O 3 , and its structural formula is: Aprepitant, USP is a white to off-white powder, with a molecular weight of 534.43. It is practically insoluble in water. Aprepitant is sparingly soluble in alcohol and slightly soluble in acetonitrile. Each capsule of aprepitant for oral administration contains either 40 mg, 80 mg, or 125 mg of aprepitant, USP and the following inactive ingredients: hypromellose 2910, poloxamer 407, sucrose, microcrystalline cellulose and imprinting ink (shellac glaze, iron oxide black and propylene glycol). The capsule shell excipients are gelatin, titanium dioxide and sodium lauryl sulfate. The 40-mg capsule shell also contains yellow ferric oxide, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide, 80-mg capsule shell contains sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide and the 125-mg capsule contains red ferric oxide, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide. Meets USP Dissolution Test 2. Structural formula
Mechanism of action
Aprepitant is a selective high-affinity antagonist of human substance P/neurokinin 1 (NK 1 ) receptors. Aprepitant has little or no affinity for serotonin (5-HT 3 ), dopamine, and corticosteroid receptors, the targets of existing therapies for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Aprepitant has been shown in animal models to inhibit emesis induced by cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents, such as cisplatin, via central actions. Animal and human Positron Emission Tomography (PET) studies with aprepitant have shown that it crosses the blood brain barrier and occupies brain NK 1 receptors. Animal and human studies show that aprepitant augments the antiemetic activity of the 5-HT 3 -receptor antagonist ondansetron and the corticosteroid dexamethasone and inhibits both the acute and delayed phases of cisplatin-induced emesis.
How supplied
• Aprepitant capsules, USP, 40 mg, are hard gelatin capsules with white body and yellow cap with "40 mg" printed in black ink on the body. NDC 13668-591-81 Carton of 1 capsule (containing 1 x 1 unit-dose blister) NDC 13668-591-82 Carton of 5 capsules (containing 5 x 1 unit-dose blisters)
• Aprepitant capsules, USP, 80 mg, are hard gelatin capsules with white body and white cap with "80 mg" printed in black ink on the body. NDC 13668-592-84 Carton of 2 capsules (containing 2 x 1 unit-dose blisters) NDC 13668-592-86 Carton of 6 capsules (containing 3 x 2 dose blisters each)
• Aprepitant capsules, USP, 125 mg, are hard gelatin capsules with white body and pink cap with "125 mg" printed in black ink on the body. NDC 13668-593-86 Carton of 6 capsules (containing 6 x 1 unit-dose blister)
• Aprepitant capsules, USP, Tri-pack-wallet type, 3-day pack (125-mg/80-mg/80-mg) 80 mg, are hard gelatin capsules with white body and white cap with "80 mg" printed in black ink on the body. 125 mg, are hard gelatin capsules with white body and pink cap with "125 mg" printed in black ink on the body. Blister pack of 2, 80 mg Capsules and 1, 125 mg Capsule NDC 13668-594-87 Carton of 3 capsules (3-day pack blister tri-pack containing one 125 mg capsule and two 80 mg capsules) Storage and Handling Capsules Store at 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Patient information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information). Hypersensitivity Reactions Advise patients that hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported in patients taking aprepitant. Advise patients to stop taking aprepitant and seek immediate medical attention if they experience signs or symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction, such as hives, rash and itching, skin peeling or sores, or difficulty in breathing or swallowing. Drug Interactions Advise patients to discuss all medications they are taking, including other prescription, nonprescription medication or herbal products [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. Warfarin: Instruct patients on chronic warfarin therapy to follow instructions from their healthcare provider regarding blood draws to monitor their INR during the 2-week period, particularly at 7 to 10 days, following initiation of the 3-day regimen of aprepitant with each chemotherapy cycle, or following administration of a single 40-mg dose of aprepitant for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Hormonal Contraceptives: Advise patients that administration of aprepitant may reduce the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives. Instruct patients to use effective alternative or back-up methods of contraception (such as condoms and spermicides) during treatment with aprepitant and for 1 month following the last dose of aprepitant [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.3 )] . Manufactured by: PHARMATHEN INTERNATION S.A., Rodopi 69300, GREECE (GRC) Manufactured For: TORRENT PHARMA INC., Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 Revised: 06/2022 2823402/3 Manufactured by: Torrent Pharmaceuticals LTD., Bharuch-392130, India. Manufactured for: Torrent Pharma INC., Basking Ridge, NJ 07920. 8101457 Revised: July 2025 Torrent Logo
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited (revised Jun 11, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Aprepitant in 15 products
Aprepitant NDC products (20)
Aprepitant recalls
- D-1027-2022 Jun 15, 2022 · Class II · Terminated
cGMP deviations: Temperature abuse - D-0349-2019 Dec 26, 2018 · Class III · Terminated
Shortfill: Aprepitant capsules 40 mg is being recalled due to customer reports of missing capsule in the blister pack.
Frequently asked questions
What is Aprepitant used for?
Aprepitant is a substance P/neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor antagonist. Aprepitant capsules are indicated • in combination with other antiemetic agents, in patients 12 years of age and older for prevention of: o acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of highly emetogenic cancer chemotherapy (HEC) including high-dose cisplatin ( 1.1 ) o nausea and vomiting…
What are the side effects of Aprepitant?
Most common adverse reactions (≥3%) are ( 6.1 ): Prevention of Chemotherapy Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV) • Adults: fatigue, diarrhea, asthenia, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, hiccups, white blood cell count decreased, dehydration, and alanine aminotransferase increased. • Pediatrics: neutropenia, headache, diarrhea, decreased appetite, cough, fatigue, hemoglobin decreased, dizziness, and… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Aprepitant?
Aprepitant is listed by 5 labelers in the FDA NDC directory, including BluePoint Laboratories, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA, Golden State Medical Supply, Inc., Sandoz Inc.
Has Aprepitant been recalled?
The FDA enforcement database lists 2 recalls for Aprepitant, most recently D-1027-2022 (class ii): cGMP deviations: Temperature abuse