kytril

Kytril blocks the actions of chemicals in the body that can trigger nausea and vomiting.

Kytril is used to prevent nausea and vomiting that may be caused by medicine to treat cancer (chemotherapy or radiation).

Kytril may be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information

You should not use Kytril if you are allergic to granisetron or to similar medicines such as dolasetron (Anzemet), ondansetron (Zofran), or palonosetron (Aloxi).

Before taking Kytril, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, a heart rhythm disorder, an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood), or a personal or family history of Long QT syndrome.

Kytril is usually started up to 1 hour before chemotherapy. Tell your doctor if you forget to take the medication within the specified amount of time before your procedure.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Kytril if you are allergic to granisetron, to similar medicines such as dolasetron (Anzemet), ondansetron (Zofran), or palonosetron (Aloxi).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Kytril:

• liver disease;

• a heart rhythm disorder;

• an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood); or

• a personal or family history of Long QT syndrome.

FDA pregnancy category B. Kytril is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether granisetron passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use Kytril without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

How should I take Kytril?

Take Kytril exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Kytril is usually started up to 1 hour before chemotherapy. Follow your doctor"s instructions.

Measure the liquid form of Kytril with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Store Kytril at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Tell your doctor if you forget to take your dose within 1 hour before chemotherapy. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have received too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include headache.

What should I avoid?

Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Kytril side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Kytril: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• fast or pounding heartbeats;

• fever, body aches, flu symptoms; or

• easy bruising or bleeding; unusual weakness.

Less serious Kytril side effects may include:

• headache;

• stomach pain or upset, loss of appetite;

• diarrhea or constipation;

• dizziness; or

• sleep problems (insomnia);

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect Kytril?

There may be other drugs that can interact with Kytril. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.