Name of the Procedure:

Injection of Fosaprepitant, 1 mg
Common Names: Emend Injection, Fosaprepitant
Medical Term: Intravenous administration of fosaprepitant dimeglumine (HCPCS Code J1453)

Summary

Fosaprepitant is an anti-nausea medication given through an injection. It helps prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. The medicine works by blocking substances in the body that trigger nausea and vomiting.

Purpose

Fosaprepitant injection is used to:

• Prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
• Improve patient comfort and adherence to chemotherapy protocols.

The goal is to minimize or eliminate nausea and vomiting symptoms, enhancing the quality of life during treatment.

Indications

This procedure is indicated for:

• Patients undergoing highly emetogenic chemotherapy.
• Individuals who have experienced severe nausea and vomiting during previous chemotherapy cycles.
• Patients as a part of a combination antiemetic therapy regimen.

Preparation

Patients may need to:

• Inform their healthcare provider about any allergies or medical conditions.
• Adjust or stop certain medications as advised.
• Undergo any routine blood tests if required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated or lying comfortably.
2. A healthcare provider locates a suitable vein, usually in the arm.
3. The injection site is cleaned with an antiseptic.
4. A needle is inserted to administer the fosaprepitant.
5. The medication is injected slowly to ensure proper absorption.
6. The needle is removed, and the site is covered with a sterile bandage.

The procedure uses standard injection equipment like needles and syringes.

Duration

The injection itself typically takes around 2-3 minutes.

Setting

Fosaprepitant injections are usually administered in:

• A hospital setting.
• Outpatient clinics.
• Oncology treatment centers.

Personnel

Healthcare professionals involved include:

• Oncologists.
• Registered nurses.
• Medical assistants.

Risks and Complications

Common risks include:

• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or pain).
• Headache.
• Fatigue.

Rare complications can include:

• Severe allergic reactions.
• Serious skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome).

Benefits

• Reduction or prevention of nausea and vomiting.
• Improved ability to complete chemotherapy treatments without interruption.
• Enhanced overall patient comfort.

Benefits are typically realized within hours of administration and last throughout the chemotherapy cycle.

Recovery

• Patients can return to normal activities shortly after the injection.
• Monitoring for any immediate side effects is advised.
• Follow-up appointments as scheduled by the healthcare provider.

Alternatives

Alternative anti-nausea treatments include:

• Oral antiemetics.
• Other intravenous antiemetics like ondansetron or dexamethasone.

Pros of fosaprepitant:

• Long-lasting effect.
• Convenient single injection.

Cons of alternatives:

• Multiple doses may be required.
• Oral medications might not be suitable if vomiting is severe.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• Minimal discomfort during the needle insertion.
• Possible mild burning sensation as the medication is injected.

After the procedure:

• Patients may feel immediate relief from nausea.
• Mild soreness or tenderness at the injection site.

Pain management includes over-the-counter pain relievers or applying a warm compress to the injection site if discomfort occurs.