Indications 

Akynzeo is prescribed together with dexamethasone to prevent acute and delayed nausea and vomiting resulting from initial and subsequent cycles of cancer chemotherapy, including highly emetogenic chemotherapy. 

Akynzeo consists of two active ingredients, netupitant and palonosetron, which work together to inhibit the body’s natural substances responsible for inducing nausea and vomiting.  

Netupitant, an NK1 antagonist, blocks the action of neurokinin, a natural substance found in the brain that triggers nausea and vomiting. While palonosetron, a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, inhibits the activity of serotonin, another natural substance in the body that can lead to nausea and vomiting. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Akynzeo and with each prescription refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. 

Akynzeo is typically taken one hour prior to the initiation of chemotherapy, with or without food intake.  

Follow the prescribed directions for taking Akynzeo, and avoid taking it more frequently, in larger or smaller amounts than recommended by your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Akynzeo. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Fatigue 
• Weakness 
• Skin redness 
• Upset stomach 
• Constipation 

Serious Side Effects 

• Signs of serotonin syndrome: 
  • Agitation 
  • Hallucinations 
  • Fever 
  • Sweating 
  • Shivering 
  • Fast heart rate 
  • Muscle stiffness 
  • Twitching 
  • Loss of coordination 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea 

Get medical help right away if you develop some of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Akynzeo rarely causes severe allergic reactions. However, get emergency medical help if you observe the following signs of an allergic reaction: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling, especially of the throat, tongue, and face 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Akynzeo. Tell your doctor promptly if any unlisted effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before using Akynzeo, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to netupitant, palonosetron, any medications or any ingredients present in Akynzeo capsules. 

To ensure Akynzeo is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of kidney or liver disease. 

Akynzeo has the potential to inhibit the elimination of certain medications from the body, potentially impacting their efficacy. Examples of such drugs include flibanserin, lomitapide, and others. 

The efficacy of Akynzeo may also be influenced by certain medications that impact its elimination from the body, such as rifamycins (e.g., rifampin) and St. John’s wort, among others. 

To minimize the risk of potential interactions, disclose to your healthcare provider all products and medications currently in use, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Pregnant women should only take Akynzeo when necessary, after thorough consultation with their physician regarding its potential risks and benefits. 

Consult your doctor before breastfeeding, as it is unclear if netupitant or palonosetron transfers to breast milk.