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Aprepitant Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 8, 2024.

Applies to aprepitant: oral capsule, oral powder for suspension.

Other dosage forms:

Common side effects of aprepitant

Some side effects of aprepitant may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

  • acid or sour stomach
  • belching
  • confusion
  • decreased urination
  • dizziness
  • dry mouth
  • fainting
  • heartburn
  • hiccups
  • increase in heart rate
  • indigestion
  • lack or loss of strength
  • lightheadedness
  • loss of appetite
  • nausea
  • rapid breathing
  • stomach discomfort upset or pain
  • sunken eyes
  • swelling or inflammation of the mouth
  • thirst
  • weight loss
  • wrinkled skin

Less common

  • burning feeling in the chest or stomach
  • hot flashes
  • indigestion
  • pain or discomfort in the chest, upper stomach, or throat
  • tenderness in the stomach area

Serious side effects of aprepitant

Along with its needed effects, aprepitant may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking aprepitant:

Less common

  • black or tarry stools
  • chills
  • cough
  • fever
  • lower back or side pain
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pale skin
  • shortness of breath
  • sore throat
  • ulcers, sores, or white spots in the mouth
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Incidence not known

  • blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
  • confusion about identity, place, and time
  • diarrhea
  • itching or skin rash
  • joint or muscle pain
  • large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
  • redness of the skin
  • red, irritated eyes
  • red skin lesions, often with a purple center
  • slow or irregular heartbeat

For healthcare professionals

Applies to aprepitant: intravenous emulsion, oral capsule, oral powder for reconstitution.

General

The most commonly reported side effects included headache, fatigue, neutropenia, constipation, and pruritus.[Ref]

Other

Hematologic

Gastrointestinal

Local

Cardiovascular

Nervous system

Hepatic

Respiratory

Metabolic

Dermatologic

Psychiatric

Genitourinary

Musculoskeletal

Renal

Immunologic

Ocular

Hypersensitivity

References

1. (2003) "Product Information. Emend (aprepitant)." Merck & Co., Inc

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

4. (2019) "Product Information. Cinvanti (aprepitant)." Heron Therapeutics

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Aprepitant side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.