Zofran ODT (Ondansetron)

Description

Indications

Ondansetron is prescribed to prevent nausea and vomiting induced by cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical procedures. It belongs to a category of drugs known as serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the effects of serotonin, a naturally occurring substance that can trigger feelings of nausea and lead to vomiting.

Uses and Dosage

This medication is designed to dissolve on the tongue, and it should not be chewed or swallowed like conventional tablets.

Before using this medication, ensure your hands are dry. It may be provided in either a bottle or a blister pack. If it’s in a blister pack, gently peel back the foil to remove a tablet, taking care not to push it through the foil. Once the tablet is removed, immediately place it on your tongue. Allow it to fully dissolve, and then swallow it with your saliva. You do not need to take this product with water, as doing so may increase the likelihood of experiencing a headache.

To prevent nausea induced by chemotherapy, typically take this medication around 30 minutes before your treatment begins. If it’s for nausea due to radiation therapy, take it 1 to 2 hours before the treatment. For post-surgery nausea prevention, take ondansetron about 1 hour before your surgery begins. You can take this medication with or without food, but your doctor may recommend fasting before chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.

Follow your doctor’s instructions for any additional doses. Ondansetron can be taken up to 3 times a day for 1 to 2 days after completing chemotherapy or radiation treatment. If you’re on a scheduled regimen, take it consistently to maximize its effectiveness, and try to take it at the same times each day.

Dosage is determined based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. For children, the dosage may also be influenced by age and weight. In cases of severe liver issues, the usual maximum dose is 8 milligrams within a 24-hour period.

Adhere to your doctor’s instructions precisely, and do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• headache
• constipation
• weakness
• tiredness
• chills
• drowsiness

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• blurred vision or vision loss
• rash
• hives
• swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• hoarseness
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting
• fast, slow or irregular heartbeat
• agitation
• hallucinations (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
• fever
• excessive sweating
• confusion
• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• loss of coordination
• stiff or twitching muscles

Caution

Before using ondansetron, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies, particularly if you are allergic to ondansetron itself, other anti-nausea serotonin blockers (like granisetron), or any other substances that may be present in this product. Inactive ingredients can sometimes trigger allergic reactions or other complications.

Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medication, particularly if you have a history of irregular heartbeat, liver disease, or stomach/intestinal issues.

Ondansetron may lead to a heart rhythm condition known as QT prolongation. This rarely results in a severe fast or irregular heartbeat, along with other symptoms such as severe dizziness or fainting. Should any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention. Low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood can elevate your risk of experiencing QT prolongation. This risk may be further increased if you are taking specific medications (like diuretics or “water pills”) or if you have conditions such as heavy sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Discuss the safe use of ondansetron with your doctor.

This medication may induce dizziness or drowsiness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate these effects. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can safely do so.

To minimize feelings of dizziness and lightheadedness, rise slowly when transitioning from a seated or lying position.

Ondansetron may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition necessitating the restriction of aspartame (or phenylalanine) intake, discuss the safe use of this medication with your doctor or pharmacist.

Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, particularly QT prolongation.

During pregnancy, use this medication only when it is clearly necessary, as it may potentially harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is uncertain whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Zofran ODT is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Zofran ODT orally disintegrating tablet:
  • 4mg
• ondansetron orally disintegrating tablet:
  • 4mg
  • 8mg

FAQ

Can I drink water after taking Zofran?

While you may take these tablets with water, it is not necessary to do so.

How long does it take for Zofran to kick in?

If you’re taking oral Zofran, it usually starts working within 30 minutes. However, it may take up to 2 hours to reach its full effects.

Resources

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20721-ondansetron-dissolving-tablets
2. https://www.goodrx.com/zofran/how-long-take-zofran-work
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601209.html
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16937/zofran-odt-oral/details
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ondansetron-oral-route-oromucosal-route/description/drg-20074421
6. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/zofran-odt.html