Brand name:
Zofran (Ondansetron)
Pronounced: ZOH-fran
Generic name: Ondansetron hydrochloride
Other brand name: Zofran ODT
Why is Zofran prescribed?
Zofran is used for the prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by
radiation therapy and chemotherapy for cancer, and, in some cases,
to prevent these problems following surgery.
Most important fact about Zofran
To ensure the maximum effect, it is important to take all doses of
Zofran exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
How should you take Zofran?
Your doctor will tell you how much drug to take and how often, depending
on the type of therapy you will be having.
Zofran is available in three forms: an oral solution, tablets that
you swallow with water, and orally disintegrating tablets that can
be swallowed with saliva alone (Zofran ODT). If you're taking the orally
disintegrating tablets, don't remove them from the blister pack until
it's time for a dose. Then peel off the foil backing with dry hands,
gently remove the tablet, and immediately place it on your tongue.
Do not attempt to push the tablets through the foil.
If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember.
Storage instructions...
Store Zofran at room temperature. Protect from light. Keep the drug
in the carton it came in. Store oral solution bottles upright.
Zofran side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Zofran.
* Side effects may include:
Constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, headache
* When Zofran is used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery,
the following side effects may occur:
Anxiety, difficulty breathing, difficulty urinating, dizziness, drowsiness,
female reproductive disorders, fever, headache, itching, low blood pressure,
shivers, slow heartbeat
Why should Zofran not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to ondansetron
hydrochloride, you should not take Zofran. Make sure that your doctor
is aware of any drug reactions that you have experienced.
Special warnings about Zofran (Ondansetron)
If drugs similar to Zofran (for instance, Anzemet or Kytril) have
given you a reaction, Zofran may cause one too.
If you suffer from phenylketonuria (an excess of the amino acid phenylalanine)
remember that Zofran contains this substance.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Zofran
No interactions with Zofran have been reported.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Zofran during pregnancy have not been adequately studied.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor
immediately. Zofran may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing
infant. If Zofran is essential to your health, your doctor may advise
you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Zofran is
finished.
Recommended dosage for Zofran
Dosage is the same for both regular and orally disintegrating tablets.
If you have poor liver function, you should take no more than 8 milligrams
of Zofran per day.
PREVENTION OF NAUSEA AND VOMITING DUE TO CHEMOTHERAPY
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
* Symptoms of Zofran overdose may include:
Low blood pressure and fainting, sudden blindness, severe constipation
