Granisetron is used to treat and prevent nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy.
This medicine may also be used to prevent nausea and vomiting that may occur with radiation therapy.
Take Granisetron exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
If you are taking this medicine to treat or prevent nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy or radiation therapy, take your first dose at least 1 hour before your chemotherapy or radiation therapy. In case you are prescribed with 1 mg twice-daily regimen, take the second dose of 1 mg tablet 12 hours after the first.
You may take Granisetron with or without food.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the type and severity of your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease
- congenital long QT syndrome (an inherited disease causing abnormally fast and erratic heartbeats)
- electrolyte imbalance (imbalance of essential minerals in the body) e.g. low potassium or magnesium level in the blood
- blocked bowel
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Regular monitoring for signs and symptoms of constipation, allergic reactions, and serotonin syndrome (drug reaction that results from excessive serotonin levels in the body) may also be needed.
Granisetron may cause any of the following side effects: headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, indigestion, decreased appetite, tiredness, weakness, hair loss, and difficulty sleeping.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs and symptoms of allergic reaction e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- signs and symptoms of heart problem e.g. chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular or abnormal heartbeat
- agitation, confusion, hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent), fever, fast heartbeat, excessive sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms
- pain or difficulty in passing stool, severe constipation
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines to treat depression e.g. fluoxetine, venlafaxine, mirtazapine
- strong painkillers e.g. fentanyl, tramadol
- lithium (medicine for mood disorders)
- phenobarbital (medicine for epilepsy [fits or seizures])
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Granisetron.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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