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PATIENT MEDICATION

Granisetron

 

What is granisetron?

Granisetron (also called Kytril®) is given to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy (chemo). Granisetron is available in these forms:

  • A 1 mg tablet
  • A 3.1 mg transdermal (topical) patch (also called Sancuso®)
  • Clear liquid given by vein (IV)
  • Oral liquid made by the pharmacy

Possible side effects of granisetron

  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Feeling tired or weak

Call the doctor right away if you have any of the following side effects:

  • Hives, itching (signs of an allergic reaction)
  • A heartbeat that does not feel normal

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

In case of a severe side effect or reaction, call the doctor, nurse, or pharmacist at 901-595-3300. If you are outside the Memphis area, dial toll-free 1-866-2ST-JUDE (1-866-278-5833).

Special instructions for granisetron

Tablet

  • Store at room temperature in a dry place.
  • Protect from light.
  • Granisetron tablets should be taken up to 1 hour before chemo or radiation.

Topical Patch

  • Store at room temperature in a dry place.
  • Keep patch in its pouch until ready for use.
  • Wash your hands before and after use.
  • Place the patch on clean, dry, healthy skin on the upper arm.
  • Do not put the patch on irritated skin or on skin where you have used creams, oils, lotions, powder, or other skin products.
  • If the patch loosens, put tape only on the edges of the patch to hold in in place.
  • Avoid using a heating pad or other heating devices on the treated area.
  • You may bathe or shower while wearing the patch. Do not swim, use a hot tub, or sauna while wearing the patch.
  • Patch may be worn up to 7 days.
  • After use, fold the sticky sides of the patch to each other before discarding in the trash.

Oral liquid

  • Store in the refrigerator.
  • Shake well. Fill the oral syringe with the correct amount.
  • Discard the oral liquid after 14 days or on the expiration date printed on the label, whichever comes first.
  • Protect from light.

Always give a complete list of medicines you are taking to your doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new vitamins, herbals, or other medicines.


 

This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician.

St. Jude complies with health care-related federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

ATTENTION: If you speak another language, assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-866-278-5833 (TTY: 1-901-595-1040).

ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-866-278-5833 (TTY: 1-901-595-1040).

تنبيه: إذا كنت تتحدث باللغة العربية فيمكنك الاستعانة بخدمات المساعدة اللغوية المتوفرة لك مجانا. .يرجى الاتصال بالرقم. 5833-278-866-1  (الهاتف النصي: 1040-595-901-1).

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