Granisetron Transdermal System

What is this medicine?

GRANISETRON (gra NI se tron) is an antiemetic. It is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Apply the patch to an area of the upper, outer arm that is clean and dry. Avoid injured, irritated, calloused, or scarred areas. Use a different site each time to prevent skin irritation. Do not cut or trim the patch. One patch can last for up to 7 days. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• confusion

• dizziness

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• fever and chills

• loss of balance or coordination

• seizures

• skin irritation or skin reaction

• sweating

• tightness in the chest

• tremors

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation or diarrhea

• headache

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• certain medicines for fungal infections like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole

• cisapride

• dofetilide

• dronedarone

• pimozide

• thioridazine

• ziprasidone

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• certain medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances

• fentanyl

• linezolid

• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

• methylene blue (injected into a vein)

• other medicines that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm)

• phenobarbital

• tramadol

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Notify your health care provider if you are not able to apply the patch 24 to 48 hours before starting chemotherapy.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in the original package at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (56 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused patches after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to granisetron, ondansetron, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored after taking this medicine.

The patch can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep the area of your skin where the patch is applied out of the sun. Cover the patch with clothing if you cannot keep out of the sun. Continue to keep the area covered and out of the sun for 10 days after removing the patch. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.