Kytril

The active ingredient in Kytril is granisetron hydrochloride, which is an antiemetic. It acts by inhibiting the effects of serotonin in the body, which can cause nausea and vomiting. This medication belongs to the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist drug class.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Kytril. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Kytril:

• Kytril is often administered only on the day of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Your doctor may advise you to take just one dose, up to an hour before chemotherapy or radiation.
• For chemotherapy patients, a second dose of granisetron is occasionally administered 12 hours following the first dose. Follow your doctor's dosing recommendations carefully.
• Do not share this medication with anybody else.
• Kytril is unlikely to be beneficial if you continue to take it without chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

Some mild and common side effects of Kytril include:

• Headache.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Lightheadedness.
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia).
• Weakness or lack of energy (fatigue).
• Anxiety.
• Stomach pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Kytril. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Serotonin syndrome symptoms include confusion, fever, rapid heart rate, perspiration, shortness of breath, and muscle stiffness or spasms.
• Changes in your heart rhythm, including QT prolongation, fast/irregular heartbeat, and other symptoms like severe dizziness and fainting.
• Serious, life-threatening allergic reactions to the drug include hives, skin rash, swelling, and trouble breathing.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Kytril. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Kytril, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Heart disease.
• Personal or family history of long QT prolongation or other heart rhythm disorders.
• Electrolyte imbalance (low potassium levels or low magnesium in the blood).
• Recently had stomach or intestinal surgery.

You should not use Kytril if you are allergic to granisetron or any of the inactive ingredients in the product.

Kytril (granisetron) acts rapidly. It typically begins to reduce nausea and vomiting within 30 minutes to an hour, with the effects lasting up to 24 hours.

When Kytril is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Lithium.
• Ritonavir.
• Pimozide.
• St. John’s wort.
• Certain antidepressants.
• Migraine headache medications.
• A narcotic (opioid) drug or muscle relaxant.

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: The normal dose is a 2 mg Kytril tablet orally per day on the days you get chemotherapy. It can be taken in two doses: 2 mg once per day or 1 mg twice daily.

Radiation-induced nausea and vomiting: The normal dose is a 2 mg tablet taken orally within 1 hour following radiation.

Granisetron is also available as an intravenous (IV) infusion given by a healthcare professional.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Roche Pharmaceuticals is the company that manufactures Kytril.

There are several lower-cost generic-name versions available of Kytril.

You should not discontinue using Kytril (granisetron) on your own. It is normally recommended for a limited period of time to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, and your doctor will advise you on when it should be discontinued.

It is not known if Kytril is safe to take while pregnant. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known if Kytril is safe to take while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.