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Zofran (ondansetron) is an antiemetic medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy. It can also be used in a range of other scenarios which involve nausea, though the medication has little effect on motion sickness.

This product is available as injections, tablets, orally-disintegrating tablets, and oral solution. It is largely a matter of personal preference which one is used. The medication can be used in patients as young as 4, though dosage adjustments are required.

Use & Administration of Zofran

Zofran is an effective medication, alleviating nausea and vomiting in a range of conditions:

• Radiation or chemotherapy
• Postoperative nausea
• Gastroenteritis
• Morning sickness
• Hyperemesis gravidarum
• Cyclic vomiting syndrome

As tablets and orally-dissolving tablets, the medication is only available in two strengths; 4 mg and 8 mg. The 4-mg version is typically reserved for children under 12 years of age. Dosage for those 12 and up ranges from 8 to 24 mg, depending on the condition being treated; 24 is generally given for chemotherapy, while other conditions take 8 to 16 mg. Patients with severe hepatic impairment should not take more than 8 mg in a day.

Zofran is usually administered before the procedure that induces nausea; before chemotherapy, radiation therapy, anesthesia, etc. Doses may continue after the procedure as well, sometimes in smaller doses, typically for 1 or 2 days. The exception here is in pregnancy and cyclic vomiting syndrome, when one might not be able to predict vomiting. In cyclic vomiting syndrome Zofran is effective in mild to moderate cases; it has little effect on severe cases.

There is some evidence that Zofran improves symptoms of schizophrenia, as well as the repetitive motions associated with antipsychotic use. This is an off-label, largely experimental use and it's difficult to find dosage and duration of use guidelines.

Warnings before Use

Zofran is well-tolerated, with common side effects being very mild. They include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Fever
• Drowsiness

Rarely more serious side effects are experienced, which call for medical attention. These are more likely at higher doses. Call a doctor if experiencing:

• Blurred vision
• Vision loss
• Slow, rapid or pounding heartbeat
• Decrease in urine
• Feeling like or passing out
• Difficulty breathing
• Shivering or tremor

Zofran is associated with prolonged QT intervals, again particularly at higher doses. It is also more likely in patients with a history, including family history, of prolonged QT intervals, or in patients taking medications that prolong QT intervals. Be sure the prescribing physician knows of any history of prolonged QT intervals.

Zofran can interact with a range of other medications, most notably:

• Antibiotics
• Antidepressants
• Anti-malarials
• Antipsychotics
• Narcotics
• Seizure medications
• Migraine medications
• Other anti-nausea medications

The above is not a complete list of medications that can interact with Zofran. While not all interactions are dangerous, they may decrease the effectiveness of one or more medications involved. Speak with a doctor or pharmacist if unsure of the safety of taking other medications with Zofran.

Zofran can be used while pregnant, but should not be used while breastfeeding. Mothers suffering from severe morning sickness or hyperemesis gravidarum should speak with a doctor before taking Zofran.