Vanda launches motion sickness drug NEREUS after 40-year gap

Vanda Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: VNDA) announced the commercial availability of NEREUS (tradipitant) in the United States for preventing motion-induced vomiting in adults. The drug represents the first new prescription medicine approved for motion sickness in more than 40 years.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved NEREUS on December 30, 2025, following two Phase 3 clinical trials conducted on the open sea. Both studies demonstrated that the drug significantly prevented vomiting compared to placebo during actual sea travel conditions.

NEREUS is an oral neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist that blocks substance P receptors in the central nervous system. The drug is taken as one or two capsules approximately one hour before travel.

The company offers NEREUS through traditional pharmacy channels and a direct-to-consumer platform at nereus.us. Through the direct platform, patients with valid prescriptions can access the drug at $85 per dose, compared to the standard list price of $255 per dose.

"NEREUS is a selective, high-affinity antagonist of human substance P/neurokinin-1 receptors that can block the vomiting center of the brain," said Mihael H. Polymeropoulos, President, CEO and Chairman of Vanda.

Motion sickness affects an estimated 65 to 78 million Americans, representing 25 to 30 percent of adults, according to the company's press release. The condition occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ear, and body during motion.

Common side effects of NEREUS include drowsiness, headache, and fatigue. The drug may impair abilities required for driving or operating heavy machinery. The medication is not recommended for patients with liver problems or severe kidney problems.

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