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Granisetron

Prescription
5-HT3 Serotonin Receptor Antagonist / Antiemetic
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Selectively blocks 5-HT3 serotonin receptors in the CTZ and vagal afferents, preventing serotonin-induced nausea and vomiting. More selective and longer-acting than ondansetron.

At a glance

Class
5-HT3 Serotonin Receptor Antagonist / Antiemetic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for chemotherapy-induced nausea
Dose
0.1 mg/kg
Route
IV, Transdermal
Frequency
Once per cycle; patch lasts 5–7 days
🐈

Cat

Limited feline data
Dose
0.1 mg/kg
Route
IV
Frequency
Once pre-chemotherapy

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength
Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature, protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Emesis controlCardiac rhythmElectrolytes

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Kytril
Sancuso (patch)

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Granisetron?
Granisetron is a 5-ht3 serotonin receptor antagonist / antiemetic used in pets. Selectively blocks 5-HT3 serotonin receptors in the CTZ and vagal afferents, preventing serotonin-induced nausea and vomiting. More selective and longer-acting than ondansetron.
What is Granisetron used for in pets?
Granisetron is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for chemotherapy-induced nausea; Limited feline data.
What is the Granisetron dose for dogs?
For dogs, Granisetron is typically dosed as follows — Used for chemotherapy-induced nausea: 0.1 mg/kg IV/Transdermal Once per cycle; patch lasts 5–7 days. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Granisetron dose for cats?
For cats, Granisetron is typically dosed as follows — Limited feline data: 0.1 mg/kg IV Once pre-chemotherapy. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Granisetron need a prescription?
Yes. Granisetron is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (5-HT3 Serotonin Receptor Antagonist / Antiemetic).

Dolasetron
Rx
Selectively antagonizes 5-HT3 serotonin receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) and peripheral vagal nerve terminals in the GI tract, preventing serotonin-induced nausea and vomiting.
dogcat