This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Zofran Consumer Information
ZOFRAN
Generic Name: ondansetron (on DAN se tron)
Brand Names: Zofran
What is the most important information I should know about ondansetron?
- The ondansetron orally disintegrating tablets (Zofran ODT) can be taken with or without water. Do not remove the tablet from the blister until immediately before taking a dose. Do not try to push the tablet through the foil backing, the tablet may break. With dry hands, peel back the foil backing of one blister and gently remove the tablet. Immediately place the tablet on your tongue where it will dissolve in seconds, then swallow with saliva. Administration with water is not necessary.
What is ondansetron?
- Ondansetron blocks the actions of chemicals in the body that may cause nausea and vomiting.
- Ondansetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.
- Ondansetron may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take ondansetron?
- Before taking ondansetron, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment.
- The Zofran ODT (orally disintegrating tablets) contain phenylalanine. Phenylketonuric patients should be aware that both the 4 mg and 8 mg tablets contain less than 0.03 mg of phenylalanine.
- Ondansetron is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not likely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take ondansetron without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or if you are planning a pregnancy.
- It is also not known whether ondansetron passes into breast milk. Do not take ondansetron without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take ondansetron?
- Take ondansetron exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each regular tablet with a full glass of water.
- The ondansetron orally disintegrating tablets (Zofran ODT) can be taken with or without water. Do not remove the tablet from the blister until immediately before taking a dose. Do not try to push the tablet through the foil backing, the tablet may break. With dry hands, peel back the foil backing of one blister and gently remove the tablet. Immediately place the tablet on your tongue where it will dissolve in seconds, then swallow with saliva. Administration with water is not necessary.
- To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of ondansetron with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
- Ondansetron can be taken with or without food.
- Store ondansetron at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a ondansetron overdose are not well known but might include headache, temporary blindness, constipation, faintness, and heart problems.
What should I avoid while taking ondansetron?
- There are no restrictions on foods, beverages, or activities during treatment with ondansetron unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.