A solution to vomiting during chemotherapy: Let's learn about the Granisetron Patch

Are you undergoing chemotherapy? Then you are probably familiar with the nausea and vomiting that come with it. This is a very annoying experience. A special method that doctors use to reduce this discomfort is this patch. This is a small strip that is stuck to the skin. Today we are talking about this Granisetron patch.

What is actually happening with this patch?

Simply put, this Granisetron is a medicine that stops vomiting and nausea. We call these ``antiemetics''. During chemotherapy, certain chemicals in our body that can cause vomiting are activated. This patch blocks the action of those chemicals. Then the nausea and vomiting that you feel are controlled.

It is mainly used to treat vomiting caused by chemotherapy. However, sometimes your doctor may prescribe it for other reasons. If you have any questions about it, it is best to ask your doctor.

Things to tell your doctor before using the patch

It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before giving you this patch. Be sure to tell them about any of the following, especially if you have any of the following:

• If you have any liver disease.
• If you have had an allergic reaction to medications such as Granisetron, Ondansetron, or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

Based on this information, it will be easier for the doctor to decide whether this medication is right for you or not.

How exactly do I use this patch?

It is very important to know exactly how to use this.

• Where to apply: The patch should be applied to the outside of your upper arm. That is, the back side just below the shoulder.
• Skin preparation: Before applying, the area should be thoroughly cleaned and completely dry. Do not apply to wounds, scars, rough skin, or areas with any infection.
• Changing the location: Don't stick it in the same place all the time. Stick it in a different place each time. This will reduce the risk of skin allergies.
• Do not cut: Do not cut the patch or separate it into pieces for any reason. The entire patch must be applied.
• Duration: One patch can be used for up to 7 days.
• Timing: This is usually done 24 to 48 hours before your chemo treatment starts. If you are unable to apply it at that time, let your doctor know immediately.

What if it is used for children?

Children may need special care when using this patch. Therefore, talk to your doctor about it carefully and follow his or her instructions exactly.

What to do if the medication is too much?

If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, for example if more than one patch has been applied, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Other medicines that should not be used with this medicine

Some medications may interact with the granisetron patch. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This patch is especially not recommended if you are taking any of the following medications:

• Some medications for fungal infections (e.g. fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole)
• Medicines like Cisapride, Dronedarone, Pimozide, Thioridazine

In addition, there are other medications that can interact with this patch.

• Some medications given for conditions such as depression or anxiety.
• Painkillers such as Fentanyl and Tramadol.
• Antibiotics such as Linezolid.
• Medications called MAOIs.
• Methylene blue (a medicine given intravenously).
• Other medications that cause irregular heartbeat (medications that prolong the QT interval).
• Medications like Phenobarbital.

This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins and traditional medicines) . Also, don't forget to tell them if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Things to consider when using the patch

Your doctor will monitor your condition while you are using this, and it is important for you to be aware of this as well.

Be careful of the sun!

This is very important. This patch can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This means you can burn more easily.

• Keep the area where the patch is applied out of direct sunlight .
• If you go out, cover that area well with clothing.
• Even after removing the patch, you should protect that area of ​​skin from the sun for another 10 days .
• Completely avoid exposure to artificial sunlight, such as sun lamps and tanning beds.

What are the side effects? What should I tell the doctor immediately?

Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common. Let's take a look at what they are.

If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.

How do I store and remove the patch?

• Storage: Keep out of reach of children. It is best to store at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Keep it in the original package it came in. Do not use an expired patch.
• Removal: Be careful when removing a used patch. There may still be medicine left in a used patch . Therefore, remove the patch, fold the two sticky sides together, and throw it in the trash. That way, it won't get on anyone else's hands.

Granisetron, Sancuso, chemotherapy, vomiting, nausea, cancer, side effects