Fosaprepitant vs. Aprepitant — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 9, 2024
Fosaprepitant is a prodrug of aprepitant, used intravenously for fast action in preventing chemotherapy-induced nausea, whereas aprepitant is taken orally for sustained efficacy.
Difference Between Fosaprepitant and Aprepitant
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Fosaprepitant is administered intravenously, offering rapid onset of action, which is crucial in managing acute phases of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. In contrast, aprepitant is administered orally and is used to provide a sustained antiemetic effect over several days of chemotherapy treatment.
Fosaprepitant is often used as a single dose during a chemotherapy regimen due to its ability to quickly convert into aprepitant in the body. On the other hand, aprepitant is taken over several days, typically as part of a regimen spanning the first few days of chemotherapy.
As a prodrug, fosaprepitant is initially inactive until it is metabolized into aprepitant, its active form, after administration. Aprepitant, however, is active on its own and directly interacts with the neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptors to prevent nausea and vomiting.
The use of fosaprepitant allows for flexibility in clinical settings where oral administration is not feasible, providing an effective alternative for patients unable to swallow pills. Conversely, aprepitant is suitable for outpatient settings where patients can manage their medication intake on their own.
Fosaprepitant and aprepitant share the same mechanism of action, targeting NK1 receptors to block the effects of substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in triggering vomiting. However, the choice between them often depends on the clinical scenario and patient needs.
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Comparison Chart
Administration
Intravenous
Oral
Onset of Action
Rapid
Gradual
Dosage Form
Single dose
Multiple doses across days
State upon Admin.
Prodrug (inactive)
Active
Ideal Usage Scenario
Immediate effect needed
Long-term effect needed
Compare with Definitions
Fosaprepitant
Part of antiemetic therapy in cancer treatment.
Fosaprepitant effectively manages acute emetic episodes during chemotherapy.
Aprepitant
Administered orally over several days.
Aprepitant is taken as a capsule by patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Fosaprepitant
An intravenously administered prodrug.
Fosaprepitant is converted into aprepitant once inside the body.
Aprepitant
A drug that blocks the action of neurokinin-1.
Aprepitant is used to prevent both acute and delayed phases of chemo-induced nausea.
Fosaprepitant
A medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Fosaprepitant is administered before chemotherapy to prevent immediate onset of nausea.
Aprepitant
An active drug affecting central nervous system receptors.
Aprepitant directly interacts with receptors to prevent nausea.
Fosaprepitant
Used primarily in clinical or hospital settings.
Fosaprepitant is preferred in situations where oral medication is not practical.
Aprepitant
Part of a longer-term antiemetic regimen.
Aprepitant is taken on a schedule to manage nausea over multiple days of treatment.
Fosaprepitant
A fast-acting option for antiemetic control.
Fosaprepitant provides quick relief from nausea due to its rapid absorption and conversion.
Aprepitant
Suitable for home treatment of chemotherapy side effects.
Aprepitant allows patients to manage their treatment at home.
Fosaprepitant
Fosaprepitant (Emend for Injection (US), Ivemend (EU)) is an antiemetic medication, administered intravenously. It is a prodrug of aprepitant.
Aprepitant
Aprepitant, sold under the brand name Emend among others, is a medication used to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) and to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting. It may be used together with ondansetron and dexamethasone.
Fosaprepitant
(pharmaceutical drug) A prodrug of aprepitant, administered intravenously as an antiemetic.
Aprepitant
(pharmaceutical drug) An antiemetic drug C23H21F7N4O3 taken orally to prevent nausea and vomiting occurring as a consequence of cancer chemotherapy or surgery. It acts as an antagonist of receptors for substance P. It is often taken in combination with other antiemetic drugs and is marketed under the trademark Emend.
Common Curiosities
How is aprepitant administered?
Aprepitant is taken orally in the form of capsules.
Can fosaprepitant be taken orally?
No, fosaprepitant is administered intravenously for rapid action.
What is fosaprepitant used for?
Fosaprepitant is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, particularly before treatment begins.
What is the main advantage of aprepitant over fosaprepitant?
Aprepitant provides a sustained effect, suitable for multi-day chemotherapy regimens.
Is fosaprepitant effective immediately?
Yes, fosaprepitant acts quickly once converted into aprepitant in the body.
How does aprepitant help in chemotherapy?
Aprepitant helps by blocking the neurotransmitter substance P, which causes vomiting.
How does the effectiveness of fosaprepitant compare to oral aprepitant?
Both are effective; the choice depends on the patient's condition and the required speed of onset.
Can fosaprepitant and aprepitant be used together?
They are not typically used together since fosaprepitant converts into aprepitant.
Is a prescription required for aprepitant and fosaprepitant?
Yes, both medications require a prescription.
Are there any side effects common to both fosaprepitant and aprepitant?
Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, and hiccups.
Who should not take fosaprepitant?
Individuals allergic to any components of fosaprepitant or aprepitant should avoid using it.
What conditions do fosaprepitant and aprepitant treat?
Both medications are used to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Can fosaprepitant be used for non-chemotherapy induced nausea?
It is primarily used for chemotherapy-induced nausea but may be considered for other severe nausea cases under medical guidance.
What is the duration of action for fosaprepitant?
Fosaprepitant itself acts rapidly, but its effects last as long as its active form, aprepitant, does in the body.
What are the storage requirements for aprepitant?
Aprepitant should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
