Ondansetron
Brand name Zofran
Used in the following combined preparations None
general information
Ondansetron, an anti-emetic, is used especially for treating the nausea and vomiting associated with radiotherapy and anticancer drugs, such as cisplatin. It may also be prescribed for the nausea and vomiting that occur after surgery.
The dose given and the frequency will depend on which anti-cancer drug you are having and the dose of that drug, in most instances, you will receive a dose of ondansetron, either by mouth or injection, before infusion of the anticancer agent, then tablets for up to five
days after the treatment has finished. The activity of ondansetron against the delayed nausea and vomiting that occur several days after chemotherapy is much less than its activity against the symptoms that occur soon after anticancer treatment.
To enhance the effectiveness of ondansetron, it is usually taken with other drugs, such as dexamethasone. Serious adverse effects are unlikely to occur.
information for users
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, injection.
Frequency and timing of doses
Normally 2 x daily but the frequency will depend on the reason for which it is being used.
Adult dosage range
4-32mg daily depending on the reason for which it is being used.
Onset of effect
Within 1 hour.
Duration of action
Approximately 12 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 2 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Can be safely stopped as soon as you no longer need it.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
possible adverse effects
Ondansetron is considered to be safe and is generally well tolerated. It does not cause sedation and movement disorders, adverse effects of some of the other anti-emetics.
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Symptom/effect
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Frequency
Common
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Rare
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Discus doctor
Only if severe
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with
In all cases
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Stop taking drug now
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Call
doctor
now
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Constipation
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•
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■
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Headache
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•
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■
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Warm feeling in head/stomach
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•
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■
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interactions
None
quick reference
Drug group Anti-emetic
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
special precautions
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
▼ You have a long-term liver problem.
▼ You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
▼ The drug passes into the breast milk. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Reduced dose necessary.
Over 60
▼ No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work
▼ No problems expected.
Alcohol
No known problems.
prolonged use
Not generally prescribed for long-term treatment.
