Indications
Zofran ODT is an oral medication prescribed to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by surgery, cancer chemotherapy, or radiation treatment. It contains the active ingredient ondansetron, which is a selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist.
Ondansetron works by blocking the action of a natural substance called serotonin, which can cause nausea and vomiting. By blocking the action of serotonin in the gut and the central nervous system, it can help prevent and treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
Uses and Dosage
Zofran ODT is a medication that comes in the form of orally disintegrating tablets. It is designed to dissolve quickly when placed on the tongue and does not require water to be swallowed. It is typically taken 30 minutes before chemotherapy or radiation treatment and offers quick relief from nausea and vomiting.
For prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy: The recommended adult dose of Zofran ODT is 8 mg taken 1 to 2 hours before the start of chemotherapy, followed by 8 mg every 8 hours for 2 days after chemotherapy. For children, the recommended dose is based on the child's body weight.
Additional doses are sometimes taken one to three times a day during chemotherapy or radiation therapy and for 1 to 2 days after the end of treatment. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ondansetron exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully, and do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Zofran ODT, be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Zofran ODT (Ondansetron):
- Chills
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Tired feeling
- Tiredness
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Zofran ODT (Ondansetron):
- Agitation
- Bloating
- Blurred vision
- Diarrhea
- Fainting
- Fast heartrate
- Pounding heartbeats
- Fever
- Hallucinations
- Headache with chest pain and severe dizziness
- Loss of coordination and
- Nausea
- Overactive reflexes
- Severe constipation
- Stomach pain
- Temporary vision loss
- Vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Form and Strength
Zofran ODT (Ondansetron) is available in the following forms and strength:
Zofran ODT: Orally disintegrating Tablet
- 4 mg
Ondansetron: Orally disintegrating Tablet
- 4 mg
- 8 mg
Caution
- Zofran ODT can cause changes in heart rhythm, which can be fatal in some cases. Patients with underlying heart conditions and those taking certain medications that affect heart function should use Zofran ODT with caution.
- Zofran ODT can increase serotonin levels in the body, which can cause a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. This risk is higher in patients who are taking other medications that increase serotonin levels.
- Patients with liver or kidney problems may need to have their dosage of Zofran ODT adjusted, as the medication is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys.
- Some patients may be allergic to Zofran ODT, and may experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
- Zofran ODT should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the potential benefits outweigh the risks, as it is not known if the medication passes into breast milk or crosses the placenta.
- Zofran ODT contains aspartame, which is metabolized into phenylalanine. Patients with PKU are unable to metabolize phenylalanine and should therefore avoid using Zofran ODT.
- Zofran ODT may interact with other medications such as apomorphine, tramadol, and ritonavir, potentially causing serious side effects.
- Zofran ODT can cause constipation in some patients, particularly those who are taking opioids for pain relief or who have a history of gastrointestinal problems.
- Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Zofran ODT and may be more prone to side effects such as dizziness or headaches.
- Zofran ODT can cause blurred vision or other vision changes in some patients and may impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Zofran ODT addictive?
Zofran ODT is not considered to be addictive, as it does not contain any substances that are known to be addictive.
How long does it take for Zofran ODT to work?
Zofran ODT typically starts working within 30 minutes, and its effects last for about 8 hours.
Can children take Zofran ODT?
Zofran ODT can be used in children over 4 years of age, but the dosage should be adjusted based on their weight and age.
Can Zofran ODT be used for motion sickness?
Zofran ODT is not typically used for motion sickness. However, it may be used off-label in some cases.
Does Zofran ODT cause drowsiness?
Zofran ODT does not usually cause drowsiness, but some patients may experience dizziness or headache as side effects.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/ondansetron.html
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601209.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16937/zofran-odt-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/zofran-odt.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020103s030%2C020605s014%2C020781s014lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/zofran-drug.htm
REVIEWS