Ondansetron (Injection)

Ondansetron (on-DAN-se-tron)

Treats nausea and vomiting caused by cancer treatments (chemotherapy or radiation) or after surgery.

Brand Name(s):

Zofran
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ondansetron or to other medicines for nausea and vomiting such as dolasetron, granisetron, or tropisetron.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle or a vein.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• The IV medicine should be clear and colorless. If you see any specks or solid pieces in the medicine bag or bottle or if it changes color, do not use the medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• If you receive your medicine at a clinic and you miss a dose, call your doctor for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you get your treatments at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles, medicine bags, and tubes. Put it where children or pets cannot reach it.
• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Inability to move eyes, other muscle spasms, especially of the face, neck, or back

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Fever
• Headache
• Pain or stinging where the needle is placed
• Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.