What is this medication for?
Granisetron belongs to the class of medications called 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. This medication is used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with particular types of cancer chemotherapy and radiation. It works by reducing the effects of a naturally-occurring chemical in the body called serotonin, which causes nausea and vomiting after certain types of chemotherapy and radiation.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are being given this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Granisetron is given as an injection in the hospital under close supervision by health care providers. The doctor may also prescribe granisetron tablets or solution (e.g., discharge from the hospital or follow-up visits with the doctor) for use at home, outside of the hospital.
Chemotherapy: The recommended adult dose of oral granisetron is 2 mg taken 1 hour before chemotherapy or 1 mg taken twice daily (with the first 1 mg dose taken one hour before chemotherapy and the second 1 mg dose taken 12 hours after chemotherapy).
Radiation: The recommended adult dose of oral granisetron is 2 mg taken 1 hour before radiation treatment.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not administer a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store all forms of this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Granisetron should not be used by anyone who is allergic to granisetron or to any of the ingredients of this medication.