KYTRIL 1MG TABLETS 10`S

Granisetron is a selective 5-HT3 (serotonin type 3) receptor antagonist. It blocks serotonin from binding to 5-HT3 receptors in the gut and the central chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), preventing the nausea and vomiting reflex triggered by cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.

Kytril 1 mg tablets are used for: prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting induced by cytotoxic chemotherapy and radiotherapy; and prevention of post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV).

For chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV): 1 mg twice daily — take the first dose within 1 hour before chemotherapy starts, and the second dose 12 hours later. On days when chemotherapy is not given, granisetron is not needed. For radiotherapy: 2 mg once daily within 1 hour of radiation. Swallow whole with water, with or without food.

Known hypersensitivity to granisetron or other 5-HT3 antagonists. Use with caution in patients with cardiac conduction disturbances, electrolyte abnormalities (hypokalaemia, hypomagnesaemia), or concomitant QT-prolonging medicines.

•       QT-prolonging agents (antiarrhythmics, some antipsychotics, fluoroquinolones): additive QT risk — monitor ECG in high-risk patients.

•       Apomorphine: potentially fatal combination — do not combine (severe hypotension reported with other 5-HT3 antagonists).

•       Analgesics / opioids: no clinically significant interaction; both are commonly used together in cancer pain management.

Store below 30°C. Original packaging, protect from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Granisetron works best when taken before nausea begins — it prevents the triggering of the vomiting reflex rather than stopping it once started. Take your first dose reliably within 1 hour before chemotherapy. Constipation is common — drink plenty of water and increase fibre intake during treatment.

Granisetron 1 mg twice daily is equivalent in efficacy to ondansetron 8 mg twice daily for CINV prophylaxis. QTc monitoring is recommended in patients on multiple QT-prolonging agents.

For highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC), current MASCC/ESMO guidelines recommend a 4-drug regimen (NK1 inhibitor + 5-HT3 antagonist + dexamethasone + olanzapine) — granisetron alone is not sufficient.

For moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC), 5-HT3 antagonist + dexamethasone is standard. Available also as IV (Kytril 3mg/3mL), transdermal patch (Sancuso) and sustained-release SC injectable (Sustol) for patients with swallowing difficulties.

Why do I get constipated on this medicine?

5-HT3 receptors also regulate bowel motility. Blocking them slows intestinal movement, leading to constipation. Increasing water and dietary fibre intake, and using a gentle laxative if needed, helps manage this.

Do I need to take it every day, even on days I don't have chemotherapy?

Generally, no granisetron is usually prescribed only on chemotherapy days and the following day. Your oncologist will specify exactly how many days to take it.

Can I drive while taking this medicine?

Granisetron can cause drowsiness in some patients. Avoid driving if you feel drowsy or unwell.

What if I vomit shortly after taking the tablet?

If you vomit within 30 minutes of taking the dose, contact your oncology team — they may advise an additional dose or switch to an IV formulation before your chemotherapy.

Can granisetron be used in children?

Granisetron tablets are generally prescribed for adults and adolescents. Paediatric dosing exists for IV formulations in oncology settings — your oncology team will advise.