Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Aprepitant, 1 mg
Common name(s): Aprepitant Injection
Technical/medical terms: Emend Injection, Neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist

Summary

Aprepitant injection is a medical procedure where the drug aprepitant is administered directly into the bloodstream. Aprepitant is used primarily to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

Purpose

Aprepitant injection helps manage and prevent acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with highly emetogenic chemotherapy. The goal is to improve patient comfort and allow patients to adhere to their chemotherapy regimens without interruption.

Indications

• Patients receiving moderately to highly emetogenic chemotherapy
• Patients who have experienced nausea and vomiting from previous chemotherapy sessions
• Individuals for whom oral medication is not suitable

Preparation

• Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Any current medications should be reviewed by the healthcare provider to avoid interactions.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests may include blood tests to assess kidney and liver function.

Procedure Description

1. Pre-procedure assessment: Verify patient information and medical history.
2. IV setup: An intravenous line (IV) is established.
3. Drug preparation: The aprepitant dose (1 mg) is calculated and prepared.
4. Injection admin: The injection is slowly administered through the IV line.
5. Monitoring: The patient is monitored for any immediate adverse reactions.

Tools/Equipment:

• IV setup (catheter, tubing, saline)
• Syringe and needle
• Aprepitant medication
• Monitoring equipment (blood pressure cuff, pulse oximeter)

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• None required, but local anesthetic may be used to ease IV placement discomfort.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a hospital setting.

Personnel

• Nurse or medical technician (for IV setup and injection)
• Oncologist or pharmacist (drug preparation and supervision)
• Nurse or physician (monitoring patient during and after injection)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Pain or swelling at the injection site
• Mild allergic reactions (rash, itching)

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Infection at the injection site
• Liver enzyme alterations

Management:

• Immediate antihistamines for mild allergic reactions
• Emergency intervention for severe reactions
• Monitor liver function regularly if needed

Benefits

• Effective management of nausea and vomiting
• Increased patient comfort with better ability to continue chemotherapy
• Effects typically begin within a few hours and last for several days

Recovery

• Patients can typically resume normal activities shortly after the procedure.
• Instructions may include avoiding strenuous activity for the rest of the day.
• Plan for a follow-up appointment if needed, especially before the next chemotherapy session.

Alternatives

• Oral antiemetic medications (may not be as effective or suitable for all patients)
• Other antiemetic injections (granisetron, ondansetron)
• Non-pharmacological methods (acupuncture, ginger)

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Oral medications are less invasive but may not be absorbed as effectively.
• Other injections have different efficacy and side effect profiles.
• Non-pharmacological methods are less reliable and may take longer to be effective.

Patient Experience

Patients might feel a brief sting or discomfort during the IV insertion. Throughout the injection, there should be minimal discomfort. Post-injection, some patients might experience mild side effects like tiredness. Pain management can include over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary. Comfort measures include a supportive environment and assurance from healthcare professionals.