Ondansetron

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Vomiz, Zofer (tablets/rapitabs), Zofran

Drug group:

Anti-emetic drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Ondansetron is an anti-emetic drug used for treating the nausea and vomiting associated with:

• Radiotherapy and chemotherapy
• Surgery

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Total daily dose for adults: 4–32mg daily, taken 2x daily
• The dose and frequency will depend on the reason for use

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 1 hour                  

How long will the effects last?

Approximately 12 hours                   
 

When should I stop using it?

Can be safely stopped as soon as no longer needed               
        

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Not generally prescribed for long-term treatment                                           

What are the possible side effects?

Ondansetron is considered safe and is generally well tolerated. It does not cause the sedation or abnormal muscle movements that limit the use of some other anti-emetics.

The following have been reported:

• More common: constipation, headache, a warm feeling in the head/stomach
• Less common: palpitations, chest pain, muscle stiffness
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: wheezing, itchy rash, swelling of the eyelids/lips/face, seizures

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/bowel problems, heart rhythm abnormalities
• Other medicines: carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin, apomorphine, vandetanib, tramadol
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Reduced dose necessary
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No problems expected
• Alcohol: No known problems