The use of aprepitant in a case of refractory nausea and vomiting

Abstract

Background:

This case report describes a patient whose refractory nausea and vomiting significantly improved with the use of aprepitant, a neurokinin receptor antagonist currently only licensed for short-term use in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Case presentation:

A patient with breast cancer and meningeal metastases had an 18-month history of nausea and vomiting refractory to a number of antiemetics commonly used in palliative care. The nausea and vomiting resolved after receiving two doses of the drug aprepitant.

Case management and outcome:

Maintenance antiemetic treatment with aprepitant was continued over a 5-month period with no recurrence of nausea and vomiting, and no observed side effects.

Conclusions:

Aprepitant has a potential role as an antiemetic for refractory symptoms within the palliative-care setting.