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Granisetron vs. Sancuso

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Granisetron (Kytril) and Sancuso (granisetron) are both antiemetics used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. However, they differ in their forms and administration. Granisetron (Kytril) is available as an oral tablet or intravenous infusion, while Sancuso is a transdermal patch. You take granisetron tablets about an hour before chemotherapy, but you apply the Sancuso patch 1-2 days before chemotherapy, and it can stay on for up to 7 days. Granisetron tablets can be more expensive and are not suitable for children, whereas the Sancuso patch is a good option for those who prefer not to take pills. Both medications can cause serotonin syndrome and severe constipation, but the Sancuso patch also requires you to avoid direct sunlight and heat sources.

Granisetron

 

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Sancuso

(granisetron)

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Summary for Granisetron

Prescription only

Granisetron prevents nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy and radiation. It can cause headaches and can be more expensive than other similar medications like ondansetron (Zofran).

Indications for Granisetron

  • Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with cancer medications (chemotherapy) and radiation

Pros and Cons for Granisetron

Pros

  • Can be taken orally or by injection
  • Safe option for older adults and people with kidney and liver problems
  • Only needs to be taken on chemotherapy and radiation days

Cons

  • Only prevents nausea and vomiting; not as good of an option for treatment of nausea and vomiting that is already present
  • Tablets not for use in children
  • Can be more expensive than similar medications

Common Side Effects for Granisetron

  • Headache (20%)
  • Weakness or lack of energy (18%)
  • Constipation (14%)
  • Diarrhea (9%)
  • Upset stomach and stomach pain (4—6%)

Warnings for Granisetron

  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Heart rhythm problems
  • Digestion problems

Summary for Sancuso

Prescription only

Sancuso, the brand name for the granisetron patch, is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. This antiemetic medication is approved for adults only. You typically apply a patch to the skin on the upper outer arm 1 to 2 days before chemotherapy. The patch slowly releases your dose over several days. The most common side effect of Sancuso (granisetron) is constipation.

Indications for Sancuso

  • Prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by cancer medications (chemotherapy)

Pros and Cons for Sancuso

Pros

  • Good option for people who don't like to take pills
  • Each patch prevents nausea and vomiting around the clock for up to 7 days
  • A convenient option for those on multi-day chemotherapy regimens
  • Usually well-tolerated with few side effects

Cons

  • Only approved for adults
  • Can only wear each patch for up to 7 days, even if you still have nausea
  • Need to apply to nearly hairless skin
  • Must place on the upper outer arm, so it might be visible to others

Common Side Effects for Sancuso

  • Constipation (5%)

Warnings for Sancuso

  • Digestion problems
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Skin reactions
  • Possible side effects with heat and sun exposure to the patch

Prices with our coupons for Granisetron vs. Sancuso

Price Card Drug Icon
Granisetron30 tablets / 1mg
$44.60$1,128.48
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Price Card Drug Icon
Sancuso1 patch / 3.1mg
$675.01$906.41
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