3. Granisetron

Granisetron

  • Granisetron is an anti-emetic, and is used to prevent or treat sickness.
  • Take your dose within the hour before the start of your chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Type of medicine 5HT3 antagonist anti-emetic
Used for Prevention or treatment of sickness after chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery
Also called Kytril®
Available as Tablets and injection

Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery may all cause the release of a chemical called serotonin (5HT) in the digestive system and the brain. This serotonin acts on receptors called 5HT3 receptors which cause sickness and feelings of sickness. Granisetron works by blocking these 5HT3 receptors and therefore stops you from feeling or being sick.

Before taking granisetron make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have heart problems such as an irregular heart beat.
  • If you think you may have a blocked bowel.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
  • Before taking granisetron, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take these tablets exactly as your doctor has told you to.
  • Usually granisetron is taken within an hour of your chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment beginning. Your doctor may ask you to take a further dose 12 hours later. If you are unsure about when to take your doses, check with your doctor.
  • If you forget to take your dose, and you feel sick, take it as soon as you remember.

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Constipation Try to eat a well balanced diet containing plenty of fibre, and drink 6 - 8 glasses of water each day
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Other side-effects include: diarrhoea, abdominal pain, sickness, weakness, high temperature, skin rash, and unusual body movements If these become troublesome, speak with your doctor

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Kytril® Tablets 1 mg and 2 mg; Manufacturer's PIL, Kytril® Tablets 1 mg and 2 mg, Roche Products Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated January 2010.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 18/11/2010 Document ID: 3602  Version: 22 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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