GENERIC NAME: GRANISETRON - INJECTION (gran-ISS-eh-tron)
BRAND NAME(S): Kytril
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It is also used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting after surgery.
HOW TO USE: This medication is administered by injection into a vein over 5 minutes by a health care professional usually 30 minutes before chemotherapy is given.
SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, constipation, change in taste, headache, fever, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, agitation, and anxiety may occur. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: skin rash, pounding or irregular heartbeat, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication should be avoided if possible during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing liver disease or any allergies.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: This medication is only to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. It is not to be used for nausea and vomiting due to other causes.
MISSED DOSE: It is important that each dose be used prior to chemotherapy as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dose schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: This medication should be stored at room temperature and used within 24 hours. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard of any unused medication after that time.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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