Granisetron
KYTRIL
What it is5-HT3 antagonist with hERG blockade; prevention of chemotherapy-associated nausea and vomiting.
Why this oneIts transdermal patch covers multiday chemotherapy, and QT effects are generally smaller than with ondansetron.
What limits itConstipation and headache are common; delayed emesis still needs a mechanistically different partner such as an NK1 antagonist.
FDA-approved for
- nausea/vomiting (1993)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting | Adults | 2 mg QD or 1 mg BID, up to 1 h before chemo | 2 mg QD or 1 mg BID (2nd dose 12 h after 1st) | |
| Prevention of radiation-induced nausea/vomiting | Adults | 2 mg QD within 1 h of radiation | 2 mg QD |
Renal No adjustment needed
Hepatic No adjustment needed
Instructions
- Give up to 1 h before chemotherapy or within 1 h of radiation
- Administer only on day(s) of chemotherapy/radiation; continued dosing off-therapy not useful
Cautions
- QT prolongation reported
- Hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis) reported
Adverse reactions
- Headache
- Constipation
- Asthenia
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Dyspepsia
Pregnancy Category B; animal studies show no fetal harm; use only if clearly needed
Lactation Undefined
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskIt does not cover delayed emesis
Cost, est. cash$300–$5,000/dose or month
Generic entryLong generic
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilitySedation, QT prolongation, extrapyramidal symptoms or anticholinergic toxicity vary by receptor target.
Mechanism of action: Granisetron ballicule
Open Granisetron in the interactive console ↗
Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
5-HT3 antagonist color theme (ondansetron, alosetron)
