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Brand Names: Zofran
Common Name: ondansetron
What is this drug used for?
Ondansetron belongs to the class of medications called 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. This medication is used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with certain types of cancer chemotherapy and radiation. It is also used to prevent and treat the nausea and vomiting that occurs after surgery. It works by reducing the effects of a naturally-occurring chemical in the body called serotonin, which causes nausea and vomiting.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Is there any reason not to take this drug?
Ondansetron should not be taken by anyone who is allergic to ondansetron or to any ingredients of the medication.
What about possible side effects?
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.
- abdominal pain or stomach cramps
- burning, tingling, or prickling sensations
- constipation
- diarrhea
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- drowsiness
- dryness of mouth
- feeling cold
- fever
- headache
- itching
- unusual tiredness or weakness
Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
- chest pain
- pain, redness, or burning at place of injection
- shortness of breath
- skin rash, hives, or itching
- tightness in chest
- troubled breathing
- wheezing
Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.
What if I am taking other drugs?
If you are taking other medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:
- stop taking one of the medications,
- change one of the medications to another,
- change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
- leave everything as is.
An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.
Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.
Other information:
Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.
Allergy: People who have had an allergic reaction to dolasetron or granisetron are advised not to take ondansetron.
Motion sickness: Ondansetron is not effective for the treatment of motion sickness.
Pregnancy: The safety of ondansetron use by pregnant women has not been established. This medication is not recommended for use by pregnant women.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if ondansetron passes into breast milk. This medication is not recommended for use by breast-feeding mothers.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children under 3 years of age. Its use by this age group is not recommended.
Special Instructions:
The recommended dose is based on need and ranges from 8 mg to 32 mg daily given in divided doses.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the one given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a scheduled dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose for a missed one.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
© MediResource Inc. Terms and conditions of use: The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.