Information about Ondansetron

Generic Name : Ondansetron
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Ondansetron are provided here.

Pronunciation : on dan' se tron

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Ondansetron, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y43.0 Therapeutic Classification : Antiemetics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Ondansetron

India :

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International :

Zofran Injection

Why is Ondansetron Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, prescribed for nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. It blocks serotonin receptors in the vomiting center and on nerves supplying the digestive system.

When should Ondansetron not be taken? (Contraindications)

The concomitant use of apomorphine with ondansetron is contraindicated, and known hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Ondansetron?

Oral: Prevention of post-op nausea and vomiting- 16 mg 1 hour before anesthesia.
Nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy- 24 mg as a single dose 30 minutes before start of single-day chemotherapy.
Less emetogenic chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy: 8 mg 2 hour before treatment followed by 8 mg 8-12 hour later.

How should Ondansetron be taken?

It comes as a tablet, a rapidly disintegrating (dissolving) tablet, and an oral solution to take by mouth, and injection administered intravenously. The first dose of this medication is usually taken 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy, 1 to 2 hours before the start of radiation therapy, or 1 hour before surgery. Additional doses are sometimes taken one to three times a day during chemotherapy or radiation therapy and for 1 to 2 days after the end of treatment.

What are the warnings and precautions for Ondansetron?

•It may affect heart rhythm, cause severe liver impairment.

Caution needed when used in cardiac diseases, patients who are on medications that can prolong QT or patients with electrolyte abnormalities, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may mask progressive ileus and/or gastric distension.

What are the side effects of Ondansetron?

Heart- Chest pain, fast heart rate.
Central Nervous System- Headache, seizures, dizziness.
Skin- Rash.
Gastrointestinal- Dry mouth, constipation, abdominal pain.
Metabolic- Low potassium in blood, increased level of liver enzymes.
Respiratory- Asthma.
Genitourinary- Gynecological disorder, urinary retention.
Miscellaneous- Fever, anaphylaxis, weakness.