Kytril (granisetron hydrochloride) is a potent 5-HT3 receptor antagonist specifically formulated for the prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and postoperative conditions. Developed with a strong evidence base from clinical oncology practice, it offers targeted action on serotonin pathways implicated in the emetic response. Its efficacy is well-established across multiple cancer treatment regimens, providing reliable symptom management that supports treatment adherence and quality of life. Available in intravenous, oral tablet, and oral solution forms, Kytril enables flexible administration tailored to clinical needs and patient preference.

Features

• Contains granisetron hydrochloride as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Selective antagonist of serotonin 5-HT3 receptors
• Available in multiple formulations: 1 mg/mL injection solution, 1 mg tablets, and 2 mg/10 mL oral solution
• Rapid onset of action with effects typically beginning within minutes of IV administration
• Demonstrated efficacy across highly emetogenic chemotherapy regimens
• Long duration of action providing up to 24 hours of antiemetic protection
• Compatible with common IV solutions including 0.9% sodium chloride and 5% dextrose

Benefits

• Significantly reduces incidence of acute nausea and vomiting following chemotherapy
• Helps maintain nutritional intake and hydration status during cancer treatment
• Supports continuation of optimal chemotherapy dosing through improved tolerance
• Reduces need for rescue antiemetic medications
• May decrease length of hospital stay for certain treatment regimens
• Contributes to improved quality of life during cancer therapy

Common use

Kytril is primarily indicated for the prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with emetogenic cancer chemotherapy, including high-dose cisplatin regimens. It is also used for prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting and for radiation-induced nausea and vomiting. The medication is commonly administered in oncology clinics, hospital settings, and increasingly in outpatient cancer treatment centers. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness across diverse patient populations, including both adult and pediatric patients receiving emetogenic cancer therapy.

Dosage and direction

Intravenous administration: The recommended dosage is 10 mcg/kg administered within 30 minutes before initiation of chemotherapy, diluted in 20-50 mL of compatible IV fluid and infused over 5 minutes. Alternatively, 1 mg may be administered as a slow IV injection (over 30 seconds).

Oral administration: For chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, the recommended dose is 2 mg taken up to one hour before chemotherapy, or 1 mg twice daily with the first dose administered up to one hour before chemotherapy.

Dosage adjustment may be necessary for elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment. The injection should not be mixed with other drugs and should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration before administration.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for possible headache, which is the most frequently reported adverse reaction. Constipation may occur and appropriate dietary measures or laxatives should be considered. Electrocardiographic changes including QT interval prolongation have been reported—use with caution in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or those taking other QT-prolonging drugs. Hepatic function should be monitored in patients with pre-existing liver impairment as granisetron is metabolized hepatically. The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 2 years of age have not been established.

Contraindications

Kytril is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to granisetron or any component of the formulation. It should not be administered to patients with congenital long QT syndrome or those with demonstrated previous hypersensitivity reactions to other 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Concomitant use with apomorphine is contraindicated due to potential for profound hypotension and loss of consciousness.

Possible side effect

The most commonly reported adverse reactions include headache (20-21%), constipation (14-18%), asthenia (14-18%), diarrhea (8-13%), and abdominal pain (6-9%). Less frequently reported effects include dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, fever, and transient elevations in liver enzymes. Serious but rare adverse events include hypersensitivity reactions, serotonin syndrome (particularly when used with other serotonergic drugs), and QT interval prolongation. Injection site reactions including pain, redness, and swelling may occur with intravenous administration.

Drug interaction

Kytril may interact with drugs that affect hepatic enzyme activity, particularly CYP3A4 inducers or inhibitors. Concomitant use with other serotonergic drugs may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Drugs that prolong the QT interval should be used cautiously with Kytril. No clinically significant interactions have been observed with emetogenic cancer chemotherapeutic agents. Granisetron does not appear to interact with alcohol consumption.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In such cases, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed administration. For chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting prevention, the timing relative to chemotherapy administration is critical—healthcare providers should be consulted if a dose is missed before scheduled treatment.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe headache, visual disturbances, dizziness, constipation, and hypotension. There is no specific antidote for granisetron overdose. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis is not expected to enhance elimination as granisetron has a large volume of distribution. In cases of suspected overdose, cardiac monitoring is recommended due to potential effects on QT interval. Medical attention should be sought immediately for any suspected overdose situation.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20-25°C (68-77°F). Protect from light. Do not freeze. The intravenous solution should be used immediately after dilution. Do not use if solution is discolored or contains particulate matter. Keep out of reach of children. Oral formulations should be kept in their original container with the cap tightly closed.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Kytril is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual patient responses may vary. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and report any adverse reactions. The full prescribing information should be consulted before administration.

Reviews

Clinical studies have consistently demonstrated Kytril’s efficacy in controlling chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. In a randomized, double-blind study involving 1,033 patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy, complete response (no emetic episodes and no rescue medication) was achieved in 65% of patients receiving Kytril compared to 29% with placebo. Oncology specialists frequently report high satisfaction with its predictable efficacy and favorable side effect profile. Patient reviews often highlight the medication’s effectiveness in allowing them to continue cancer treatment with reduced discomfort, though some note the occurrence of headache as a bothersome side effect. The flexibility of administration routes is frequently cited as a practical advantage in clinical settings.