Drug Notes

Granisetron (Absorbed through the skin)

Granisetron (gra-NIS-e-tron)

Prevents nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

Brand Name(s):

Sancuso

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Patch

• Your doctor will tell you how many patches to use, where to apply them, and how often to apply them. Do not use more patches or apply them more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after applying a patch.
• Leave the patch in its sealed wrapper until you are ready to put it on. Tear the wrapper open carefully. NEVER CUT the wrapper or the patch with scissors. Do not use any patch that has been cut by accident.
• Apply the patch to clean, dry skin on the outside of your upper arm. Do not put the patch over burns, cuts, or irritated skin. Avoid putting the patch on areas where it could be rubbed off by tight clothing.
• Cover the area with clothing while you wear the patch and for 10 days after you remove it.
• If the patch does not stick well, use medical tape around the edges to keep it in place. Do not cover the patch completely. If the patch comes more than halfway off or becomes damaged, call your doctor for instructions.
• Store the patches at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not take other medicines containing granisetron while you are using Sancuso®.
• Some medicines can affect how granisetron works. Tell your doctor if you are using medicine to treat depression.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have stomach or bowel problems. Tell your doctor if you had an allergic reaction to medical adhesive tape, adhesive dressings, or other skin patches.
• This medicine may the following problems:
  • Serious drug reaction called serotonin syndrome (more likely when used with certain other medicines)
  • Serious skin reactions
• Do not use a heating pad on the area where you wear the patch. Avoid exposing the patch to sunlight or sunlamps.
• Avoid swimming, strenuous exercise, or using a sauna or whirlpool while you are wearing the patch.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Anxiety, restlessness, fast heartbeat, fever, sweating, muscle spasms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, seeing or hearing things that are not there
• Pain or swelling in your stomach
• Severe pain, redness, itching, blistering, or rash where the patch is applied

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild redness or itching where the patch is applied

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017