Health Library

Fosnetupitant/palonosetron (By injection)

Fosnetupitant (fos-net-UE-pi-tant), Palonosetron (pal-oh-NOE-se-tron)

Prevents nausea and vomiting caused by cancer medicines.

Brand Name(s):

Akynzeo

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein. It must be given slowly, so the needle will have to remain in place for at least 30 minutes, about 30 minutes before starting your cancer treatment.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how fosnetupitant/palonosetron works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Alprazolam, dexamethasone, fentanyl, ketoconazole, lithium, midazolam, mirtazapine, rifampin, tramadol, triazolam
  • Blood thinner (including warfarin)
  • Cancer medicine (including cyclophosphamide, docetaxel, etoposide, ifosfamide, imatinib, irinotecan, paclitaxel, vinblastine, vincristine, vinorelbine)
  • MAO inhibitor
  • Medicine to treat depression (including SNRIs, SSRIs)
  • Medicine to treat migraine headaches

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease or liver disease.
• This medicine may cause a serious drug reaction called serotonin syndrome (more likely if used together with certain other medicines).
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Anxiety, restlessness, fast heartbeat, fever, sweating, muscle spasms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, seeing or hearing things that are not there
• Trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, stomach upset
• Headache
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed
• Redness of the skin
• Tiredness or weakness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024