Zofran

The active ingredient in Zofran is ondansetron hydrochloride. It belongs to a class of medications called 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. It exerts its antiemetic effects by selectively blocking serotonin receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone of the brain. By blocking these receptors, Zofran helps manage nausea and vomiting in cancer patients and those undergoing surgery.

Unlike some older antiemetics that may cause sedation or extrapyramidal side effects, Zofran is well-tolerated by most individuals and does not typically induce these adverse reactions. Its targeted action on serotonin receptors minimizes the risk of unwanted side effects, making it a preferred choice for many healthcare providers when treating nausea and vomiting.

Follow all directions given by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full prescribing information, FDA-approved product labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Zofran. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Zofran:

• The first dose is usually taken before chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation treatment.
• Oral Tablets: Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water.
• Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODT): Place the tablet on your tongue and allow it to dissolve without chewing. Use dry hands to take the medication out of the package.
• Oral Solution: Measure the prescribed dose using a marked measuring spoon or oral syringe.
• Injection: Administered by a healthcare professional via intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM) injection.
• Take Zofran 30 minutes before chemotherapy, 1 to 2 hours before radiation therapy, or 1 hour before receiving anesthesia for surgery to prevent nausea and vomiting.
• For ongoing nausea, follow the schedule provided by your doctor.
• Zofran can be taken with or without food.
• Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one.

The most common side effects of Zofran seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Headache
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Drowsiness
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Tiredness

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Zofran. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Serious allergic reaction. Symptoms could include:
• Rash
• Hives
• Swelling of the face, tongue, or lips
• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Blurred vision or temporary vision loss
• Heart attack
• Serotonin syndrome
• Abnormal heart rhythm or irregular heartbeat
• This includes an elongated QT interval. This is more likely to happen with intravenous ondansetron or if you have low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you feel chest pain or severe dizziness.

These are not all of the possible side effects of ondansetron. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Zofran, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• A history or family history of long QT syndrome or QT prolongation (torsade de pointes)
• Congestive heart failure or slow heart rate
• Phenylketonuria (PKU) as Zofran orally disintegrating tablets may contain phenylalanine
• Liver disease
• Blockage in your digestive tract (intestines or stomach)
• Electrolyte problems (such as low potassium or low magnesium)

• Concomitant use of apomorphine

• Patients with a known hypersensitivity to ondansetron or any of the components in Zofran.

Zofran typically begins to work within 30 minutes to 2 hours after taking it. It is commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting, particularly those related to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. The onset of action can depend on the method of administration:

• Oral tablet or dissolving tablet: About 30 minutes to 1 hour.

• Intravenous (IV) administration: Works within a few minutes.

The effects usually last for 4 to 8 hours, depending on the dose and the individual's response to the medication.

When Zofran is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking so they can check for drug interactions, including:

• Serotonergic drugs, such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and MAO inhibitors
• Drugs affecting cytochrome P-450 enzymes such as carbamazepine and phenytoin
• Alfentanil and atracurium
• Tramadol
• Chemotherapy
• Apomorphine
• Fentanyl

Zofran is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 4 mg or 8 mg

• Oral solution: 4 mg/5mL

• Orally disintegrating tablets: 4 mg or 8 mg

A common adult dose of ondansetron for nausea and vomiting is 8 mg to 24 mg per day, depending on the condition.

• Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Zofran is manufactured by Novartis.

Lower-cost generics are available for the brand-name medication Zofran. Other brand names include Zofran ODT and Zuplenz.

To stop taking Zofran, consult your healthcare provider to ensure it's safe and appropriate to discontinue use. Since Zofran is typically taken short-term, stopping it usually doesn't require tapering, but any potential recurrence of nausea should be monitored. In rare cases, some discomfort may occur after stopping, so follow your doctor's advice and stay hydrated if symptoms return.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. There have been concerns about potential risks to the fetus, although studies have shown mixed results. It should be noted that although it is not FDA-approved to treat nausea and vomiting in pregnant women, Zofran is now commonly used during pregnancy.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you. Studies in animals suggest that Zofran is found in breast milk, but the effects of it on your breastfeeding baby are not known. If Zofran is used, the infant should be monitored for potential side effects, such as sedation or feeding difficulties.