What is this medication for?
Granisetron belongs to the class of medications called 5-HT3 receptor antagonists.
This medication is used for the prevention of 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 have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to 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 take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
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. Normally, the doctor would prescribe granisetron tablets
or solution (e.g., discharge from the hospital or follow-up visits with the
doctor) for regular daily use.
Chemotherapy: The recommended adult dose of oral granisetron is 2 mg
taken one 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 twelve hours after chemotherapy).
Radiation: The recommended adult dose of oral granisetron is 2 mg
taken one hour before radiation treatment.
This medication is best taken on an empty stomach to minimize nausea.
Store all forms of this medication at room temperature, protect it from light,
and keep it out of the reach of children.
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 taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by
your doctor. If you miss a scheduled dose of this medication take it as soon
as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed
dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to
make up for a missed one.