Actions and Spectrum:
The mechanism of action of aprepitant involves blocking the binding of substance P, a neurokinin neurotransmitter, to the NK1 receptors in the brain. Substance P is known to play a role in regulating nausea and vomiting in the brainstem. By inhibiting the activation of NK1 receptors, aprepitant helps to prevent the signals that trigger nausea and vomiting from being transmitted to the brain. aprepitant has a broad spectrum of activity against both acute and delayed CINV caused by moderately and highly emetogenic (nausea-inducing) chemotherapy, as well as for PONV. It is commonly used with other antiemetic medications, such as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and corticosteroids, to provide a multi-faceted approach to preventing nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy or surgery.
