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Granisetron review
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The drug granisetron is classified as an oral and a parenteral antiemetic agent. It is most commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting induced from chemotherapy from cancer treatment.
The main action of the drug granisetron is to selectively block type 3 serotonin receptors. Type 3 serotonin receptors, or 5-HT3 receptors are found in the chemoreceptor trigger zones centrally, and peripherally at the vagal nerve terminals in the intestines.
Granisetron, made available orally or as an injectible drug, is marketed as Kytril and is indicated for the treatments of patients with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. It is also used to treat post-operative and post-radiation nausea and vomiting.
The recommended adult dosage of Kytril (granisetron hydrochloride) is at 2mg given once daily, or 1 mg given twice daily. For the 2 mg daily regimen of granisetron, the patient may take in two 1 mg tablets or 10 ml of the granisetron oral solution up to an hour before the chemotherapy session. For the 1 mg twice a day regimen, the first milligram, or the first 5 mL of granisetron oral solution is to be given an hour before the therapy, and the second half about 12 hours after the first dose. The drug is to be used only on the days of the chemotherapy session.
The drug granisetron has been reported by clinical tests as a very well tolerated drug. Very rare reports of allergic reactions (hives, itching, swelling of the face, mouth, lips, difficulty in breathing) have been reported due to the use of the drug. The most common side effects of the drug include nausea, headaches and vomiting.
Other side effects reported of the drug include constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, and shortness of breath. Serious side effects include hypertension, atrial fibrillation, anemia and hypotension.
Granisetron is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug or its known components. It is also contraindicated in patients with severely impaired lungs, kidney and heart. One of the known interactions of Granisetron is with the drug Dexamethasone as it may cause an increase in the effects/side effects of the drug.
Granisetron is not a stand-alone medication that stimulates peristalsis. It should not be used in lieu of nasogastric suction. It is also contraindicated in patients who have undergone abdominal surgery.
Granisetron should only be used on its recommended dosage. It is not known whether granisetron hydrochloride has adverse effects to the fetus. However, the use of the drug in pregnant women should always be consulted with the doctor. Nursing mothers, or women planning to breastfeed must first consult their doctor prior to the usage of the drug. The potential benefits of the drug must always be weighed against its risks to the nursing mother and infant. No known studies have been made for children and pediatric use. The use of the drug on both pediatric and geriatric patients must be exercised with caution as the effects may be greater in this populations.
As Granisetron is absorbed in the kidney and liver, caution is to be exercised when administering the drug to patients with severely impaired hepatic and renal functioning. A decrease in the dosage may be required for such patients.
Granisetron has the following structural formula:
• Molecular formula of granisetron is C18H24N4O
• Chemical IUPAC Name is 1-methyl-N-(9-methyl-9-azabicyclo[3.3.1]non-3-yl)-indazole-3-carboxamide
• Molecular weight is 312.41 g/mol
• Granisetron available : 1mg tablets
Brand name(s): Granisetronum, Kytril
Review published on: 18 August 2009
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