Drug Title

Zofran (Ondansetron)

Drug Uses

Zofran is used for preventing nausea and vomiting due to cancer chemotherapy or surgery. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How to use

Use Zofran as directed by your doctor.

• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Take Zofran with food or an antacid to lessen stomach discomfort.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Zofran.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Zofran is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor blocker. It works by blocking a chemical thought to be a cause of nausea and vomiting in certain situations (e.g., chemotherapy).

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Zofran and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Zofran at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Zofran out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Precautions

Do not use Zofran if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Zofran;

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important:

• Zofran may cause drowsiness or dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Zofran with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
• Zofran should be used with extreme caution in children younger than 4 months old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Zofran while you are pregnant. It is not known if Zofran is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Zofran, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; irritation, redness, pain, or burning at the site of injection; tiredness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue);
• chest pain;
• fever;
• skin tingling or numbness;
• trouble urinating;
• vision changes or loss.

More Information

Zofran is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.