Kytril (Granisetron)

Description

Kytril is a medication that is used to treat conditions such as nausea and vomiting that are caused as a result of medications used during chemotherapy. This medication is also known as Granisetron in the medical field.

 

How It works

 

This medication works by affecting the brain directly. There are certain brain chemicals, such as neurotransmitters, that are responsible for triggering nausea and vomiting. Medications used for chemotherapy can increase these brain chemicals and thereby lead to such unpleasant effects. Kytril works by neutralizing the level of such neurotransmitters and thereby reduces effects such as nausea and vomiting to a great extent.

 

Uses

 

This medication is useful in treating conditions that occur as a result of various types of cancer treatments. It is primarily used among patients who take chemotherapy since the nausea and vomiting are common side effects of the medications used in this treatment process. However, the medication is also effective in treating nausea and vomiting that are caused a result of radiation therapy.

 

Dosage

 

This medication is usually taken 1 hour before chemotherapy. Do not take more tablets than advised or change your dosage schedule without consulting your physician. Increasing the number of tablets will not reduce nausea to a great extent but will only lead to unpleasant side effects. If you missed or skipped your dosage, do not double the next one. Follow your regular timetable.

 

If you are taking this medication in liquid form, make sure to measure the solution accurately. Do not use a household spoon since it will not be accurate. Thus, you need to use a proper measuring device/spoon to ensure that you only take the right amount of medication. This will reduce the risk of overdosing.

 

Side Effects

 

The following are some side effects of this medication that you may or may not experience during the treatment process.

 

 Pounding heartbeat
 Body aches
 Easy bruising
 Unusual bleeding
 Constipation
 Dizziness
 Insomnia
 Stomach upset
 Unusual tiredness

 

If you experience any of the above symptoms during your treatment period, contact your healthcare provider for immediate medical assistance.

 

Precautions

 

By adhering to the following precautionary methods, you will be able to reduce the risk of side effects to a great extent.

 

 Inform your physician if you have a pre-existing liver disease or heart condition

 

 Do not consume alcohol since it can reduce the effectiveness of the medication

 

 Check whether you are allergic to any of the ingredients used in the medication

 

 Inform your physician about the prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, medical supplements and herbal treatments that you are currently using

 

 Drink plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated

 

 Take regular tests to track your blood pressure levels

 

 Take lab tests to ensure that you do not develop a liver disease during the treatment period

 

Self-Care

 

It has been found that this medication can adversely affect the health of an unborn baby. Thus, you must not consume this medication during the period of pregnancy. If you become pregnant during the treatment period, contact your physician for instructions.

 

Remember that this medication will reduce the unpleasant side effects of chemotherapy medications. Thus, do not use this medication more than prescribed since it will not affect your cancer in anyway.