Key takeaways
Sancuso (granisetron) and Emend (aprepitant) are both used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, but they have some key differences. Sancuso is a transdermal patch that works by blocking serotonin, while Emend is an oral medication that blocks NK1 receptors in the brain. Sancuso is applied to the skin 1-2 days before chemotherapy and can be worn for up to 7 days, making it a good option for those who prefer not to take pills. On the other hand, Emend is taken by mouth for the first three days of each chemotherapy cycle and is available in both capsule and oral solution forms. Emend is also available as a lower-cost generic, whereas Sancuso can be very expensive. Additionally, Emend has many drug interactions, while Sancuso has specific precautions related to heat and sunlight exposure. Both medications have their own set of side effects, with Sancuso potentially causing severe constipation and skin reactions, and Emend commonly causing tiredness and diarrhea.
