Merck (known as MSD outside the United States and Canada) today announced that the European Union has granted marketing approval for a new, single dose regimen of 'Ivemend'® (fosaprepitant) 150 mg. Fosaprepitant is used in adults in combination with other antiemetic medicines for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with highly emetogenic cisplatin (HEC)-based chemotherapy and moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC). Unlike fosaprepitant 115 mg, which must be given on Day 1 of chemotherapy only with aprepitant capsules on Days 2 and 3, single dose fosaprepitant 150 mg is administered on Day 1 of chemotherapy only and does not require capsules of 'Emend' (aprepitant) on Days 2 and 3. Fosaprepitant has not been studied for the treatment of established nausea and vomiting and is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of the product. The approval of fosaprepitant applies to all of the 27 countries that are members of the European Union, as well as in Norway and Iceland. Fosaprepitant will be available later this year.
"Nausea and vomiting are serious concerns for many cancer patients receiving chemotherapy," said Steven M. Grunberg, M.D., professor of medicine and pharmacology, University of Vermont. "Fosaprepitant is part of guideline-recommended antiemetic care for appropriate patients. The introduction of 'Ivemend' 150 mg will allow healthcare professionals the flexibility to choose a regimen based on the individual needs of our patients."
About 'Emend' (aprepitant) and 'Ivemend' (fosaprepitant)
Aprepitant and fosaprepitant are licenced for the prevention of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting associated with highly emetogenic cisplatin-based cancer chemotherapy in adults and prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with moderately emetogenic cancer chemotherapy in adults. Both aprepitant and fosaprepitant are given together with other antiemetic agents as part of combination therapy.
About MSD
Today's MSD is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. MSD is a trade name of Merck & Co., Inc., with headquarters in Whitehouse Station, N.J., U.S.A. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and consumer care and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to healthcare through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships. For more information, visit www.msd.com.