Zofran
developed to prevent nausea and to address vomiting associated with cancer treatments or surgical procedures.
Strengths: 4 · 8mg
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Medicine details
- Therapeutic class
Antiemetic; 5-HT3 Antagonist
- Pharmacological class
5-HT3 Receptor Antagonist
- Known off-label uses
gastroenteritis
- Contraindications
hypersensitivity to ondansetron; concurrent use of apomorphine
- Minor side effects
headache; flushing; constipation
- Moderate side effects
elevation of liver enzymes; dizziness; abdominal discomfort
- Dosage forms
Film-coated tablet; Orodispersible tablet
- Administration route
Oral use
- Prescription status
POM
- Manufacturer
Novartis
- Onset Time
30–60 minutes
- Duration
8–12 hours
- Storage instructions
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light and humidity.
- Drug interactions
apomorphine; qt interval prolonging drugs
- Age restrictions
Use with caution in children; follow specialist paediatric dosing guidance.
Precautions and warnings
monitor for QT prolongation; use caution in patients with hepatic impairment; monitor for severe constipation; may mask symptoms of bowel obstruction
Serious side effects
qt prolongation — requires immediate medical attention; arrhythmia — requires immediate medical attention; anaphylaxis — requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
developed to prevent nausea and to address vomiting associated with cancer treatments or surgical procedures.
Mechanism of action
Ondansetron functions as a potent, highly selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist. By blocking these receptors located on the vagus nerve terminals and in the chemoreceptor trigger zone of the brain, it effectively inhibits the emetogenic response to chemotherapy and surgery.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Use of ondansetron is not routinely recommended, especially during the first trimester. Breastfeeding: Formula feeding is recommended if treatment is necessary.
Zofran
developed to prevent nausea and to address vomiting associated with cancer treatments or surgical procedures.
Editorial Notes
- Active ingredient(s): Ondansetron
- Listed indication(s): Nausea and Vomiting, Post-operative Nausea and Vomiting
Usually available as
- 90 tablets - 4 mg742-4-mg-1689
- 60 tablets - 8 mg742-8-mg-1694