What is Akynzeo?
Akynzeo is a combination medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting that are caused by chemotherapy. Akynzeo is administered with a steroid known as dexamethasone.
Akynzeo can help stop vomiting and nausea that occur in the course of chemotherapy as well as later (delayed nausea or vomiting).
Akynzeo may also be used for other purposes that are not mentioned in this guide.
Side Effects of Akynzeo
Contact a medical professional immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that are
warning signs of an allergic reaction, such as chest pain, hives, breathing difficulties, and swelling of your lips, face, or tongue,
Get immediate medical attention. If you experience indications that suggest serotonin syndrome, for example, hallucinations, agitation, sweating, shivering, rapid heart rate, muscle stiffness and twitching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or nausea,
Common negative side effects of Akynzeo could include:
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Headache;
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Fatigue or feeling weak;
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Skin redness,
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Upset stomach,
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Constipation
This isn't a complete list of all the side effects. Others could happen. Contact your doctor for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Follow the directions on the label of your medication and the package. Be sure to inform your healthcare professionals about your medical issues, allergies, and the medicines you are taking.
Prior to Use
Akynzeo could harm an unborn child. Tell your doctor if you fall pregnant.
Speak to your doctor if you are ever diagnosed with:
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Kidney or liver disease.
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The allergic response to a medication to treat nausea or vomiting, for example, dolasetron (Anzemet), ondansetron (Zofran), and palonosetron (Aloxi).
Check with your physician if you are taking medication that is a stimulant, opioid, herbal product, or medication that treats depression or mental illness, such as Parkinson's disease, migraine headaches, or more serious infections. These medications can be incompatible with Akynzeo and cause serotonin syndrome.
It is not recommended to breastfeed when using Akynzeo to treat
Akynzeo is not a product that has been approved to be used by anyone younger than 18 years old.
The medicine is prescribed ahead of time and does not treat vomiting or nausea you already suffer from.
Within 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy, a doctor will provide you with Akynzeo for an infusion into a vein.
Dexamethasone is also taken 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy, and you might need to continue taking dexamethasone for 3 days following your treatment. Follow your doctor's instructions for dosing with care.
What Happens If I Miss the Dose?
Akynzeo is an individual injection. It is not a daily dose schedule.
What Happens If I Overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What Should be Avoided?
Follow your doctor's advice regarding any limitations on foods, drinks, or any activity.
Interaction with Other Drugs
There are times when it's not recommended to take certain medicines simultaneously. Certain medications can alter the blood levels and the other medications that you take, which can cause more side effects or make the drugs less effective.
A variety of drugs may affect Akynzeo. This includes prescription as well as over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Not all interactions are mentioned on this page. Inform your doctor of your current medications and any medications you begin or stop taking.
