What is Ondansetron?
Ondansetron blocks the chemical reactions in the body that trigger vomiting.Ondansetron is a medication used to treat nausea and vomiting that could result from surgical procedures or medication for treating cancer (chemotherapy).Ondansetron is a medication that can be used to treat conditions not covered in this guideline.
Side effects of Ondansetron
See a doctor immediately. If you experience any of the following symptoms as warning signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching or hives: fever, chills, trouble breathing, swelling of your lips, face, and tongue,
Zofran may cause serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately in the event that you experience:
- Headache with chest pains and extreme dizziness; fainting; rapid or pounding heartbeats;
- Blurred vision or temporary vision loss (lasting from one or two minutes up to a couple of minutes to a long time);
- Extreme constipation and stomach pain or excessive bloating;
- Feeling lightheaded, like you're about to be sucked out.
- Very little or no urine;
- Serotonin levels are high within the body; the body's serotonin levels can cause agitation and hallucinations. Fever, a fast heart rate, and overactive reflexes. Nausea nausea, diarrhea, inability to control, and fainting.
Common adverse effects of Zofran can include:
- Constipation or diarrhea;
- Drowsiness;
- Fever
It's not a comprehensive description of the various negative consequences. Other side effects could occur. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
You shouldn't take ondansetron when you are taking apomorphine (Apokyn).
Before you take this drug
This medication is for you if you have an allergy to ondansetron or if you also use amorphine (Apokyn).
To be sure ondansetron is suitable for you, inform your doctor that you have:
- Liver disease;
- Heart disease, congestive heart failure, and the heart rhythm disorder
- An electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of magnesium or potassium within your blood);
- A family or personal experience or a family history of Long QT syndrome;
- A condition that requires you to be prescribed a diuretic, such as a "water pill."
Ondansetron isn't thought to harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are expecting.It is unclear if ondansetron gets into breast milk or if it is harmful to nursing babies. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding a child.
How to take Ondansetron?
Ondansetron is administered into a vein via an IV. Your healthcare professional will provide the injection.Ondansetron is typically administered just before the surgery starts or 2 hours following surgery.
To avoid nausea and vomiting triggered by chemotherapy, ondansetron can be administered 30 minutes prior to the beginning of chemotherapy. The second and third doses of ondansetron can be given after 4 hours or 8 hours following the first dose.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Because you'll receive ondansetron in a clinical environment, you're less likely to miss a dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Because this medication is administered by a health specialist in a medical setting, the risk of overdose is less likely to occur.
Avoid this
The medicine can cause blurred vision and could cause a decrease in your ability to think or react. Be aware of this when you drive or perform any activity that requires that you be aware and in a position to clearly see.
Interaction with other drugs
Ondansetron could trigger a grave heart condition, especially when you take certain medications simultaneously, such as antidepressants, antibiotics, heart rhythm medicine, antipsychotic drugs, and medications for treating malaria, cancer, HIV, or AIDS. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking and the ones you begin or stop taking during the treatment you receive with ondansetron.
Ondansetron that you receive while taking other medications could result in excessive serotonin buildup in your body. This is an issue known as "serotonin syndrome" that can lead to death. Inform your doctor that you also take:
- Medication used to manage the symptoms of depression;
- Medication for treating a psychiatric disorder
- A prescription for a narcotic (opioid) medication
- Medicine to reduce vomiting and nausea.
This list isn't complete, and other medications may be a potential cause of interaction with ondansetron. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Provide a list of all your medications to any doctor who will treat you.
