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What is granisetron transdermal system (patch), and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Sancuso is granisetron delivered via a transdermal
patch system for the prevention of
nausea
and
vomiting resulting from
chemotherapy
for cancer. Other
formulations of granisetron (for example,
Kytril)
are administered by mouth or injection. Certain chemotherapeutic agents used for
treating cancer stimulate the release of a neurotransmitter called serotonin
from nerves in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that nerves use to
communicate with one another. Released serotonin binds to other nerves in an
area of the brain called the chemoreceptor trigger zone, causing nausea and
vomiting. Granisetron, the active ingredient in Sancuso, prevents serotonin from
binding to nerves in the chemoreceptor trigger zone thereby preventing nausea
and vomiting. The FDA approved Sancuso in September 2008.
What brand names are available for granisetron transdermal system (patch)?
Sancuso
Is granisetron transdermal system (patch) available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
Do I need a prescription for granisetron transdermal system (patch)?
Yes
What are the side effects of granisetron transdermal system (patch)?
The most common adverse effects of granisetron are
constipation
and headache.
Other adverse effects include
anxiety, dizziness,
diarrhea,
abdominal pain, and
chest pain.
Allergic reactions may occur rarely.
Application site reactions (redness, bumps,
rashes, blisters) may occur. The patch must be removed if serious skin reactions
or generalized skin reactions occur. Light exposure (sunlight, sun lamps,
tanning beds) may reduce the effect of granisetron, and granisetron may cause
light sensitivity. To avoid light exposure, the application site should be
covered with clothing during therapy and for 10 days after the patch is removed. Granisetron may mask the symptoms of certain gastrointestinal conditions, for
example,
gastroparesis or ileus (paralysis of the muscles of the stomach and small
intestine, respectively) by reducing the nausea and vomiting that are their
primary symptoms.
What is the dosage for granisetron transdermal system (patch)?
A single patch is applied to clean, dry, intact healthy skin on the
upper outer arm 24-48 hours before chemotherapy is begun and not removed until
at least 24 hours after completion of chemotherapy. The patch may be worn for up
to seven days. It should not be applied on skin that is red, irritated, or
damaged because of concerns about increasing inflammation and increased
absorption of drug. Each patch is packed in a pouch and should be applied
immediately after the pouch has been opened. The patch should not be cut into
pieces.
Which drugs or supplements interact with granisetron transdermal system (patch)?
Drug interaction studies have not been conducted with
granisetron. Granisetron is broken down in the body by cytochrome P-450 liver
enzymes. Drugs that increase (for example, phenobarbital) or decrease (for
example, ketoconazole
[Nizoral, Extina, Xolegel, Kuric]) the activity of cytochrome P-450 liver enzymes may affect
the levels of granisetron in the body.
Is granisetron transdermal system (patch) safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It is not known whether granisetron is excreted in breast
milk. Nursing mothers should consider not
breastfeeding.
What else should I know about granisetron transdermal system (patch)?
What preparations of granisetron transdermal system (patch) are available?
Transdermal patch delivering 3.1 mg/24 h
How should I keep granisetron transdermal system (patch) stored?
Sancuso should be store in the original package at 15 C and 30 C (59
F and 86 F).