Zofran (Ondansetron)

Description

This medication is used to treat conditions such as nausea and vomiting that are caused a result of certain cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. Also known as ondansetron, this medication can be used alone or along with a number of other medications.

 

 

 

How It Works

 

The medication works by taking control over certain natural substances in the body. Serotonin is responsible for inducing conditions such as nausea and vomiting among cancer patients. This medication reduces this ability of serotonin by blocking it. This reduces the unpleasant aftereffects of cancer treatment to a great extent.

 

Uses

 

Zofran is mainly used amongst cancer patients in order to reduce the unpleasant side effects of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. This medication can reduce vomiting and nausea to a significant degree among individuals who have received chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer. The medication can also help those who suffer from similar aftereffects due to a normal surgical treatment.

 

Dosage

 

The dosage is usually determined by your medical history and personal health status. Your response to this particular treatment can influence the dosage too. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, make sure to take this drug 30 minutes before the treatment. If you are going for radiation therapy, Zofran should be taken at least 2 or 3 hours prior to the treatment. Although this medication can be taken with or without food, it is best to stick to the latter option since you might be asked to refrain from eating prior to chemotherapy.

 

Make sure to stick to the prescription of your physician at all times. Changing the dosage can not only affect your health, but can also affect the effectiveness of the cancer treatment.

 

Side Effects

 

The following are some of the side effects you may experience when using this medication.

 

 Increased levels of serotonin
 Pounding heartbeat
 Jaundice
 Blurred vision
 Headaches
 Drowsiness
 Constipation
 Unusual tiredness

 

If you experience any of the above during the treatment, make sure to contact your health care provider immediately.

 

Precautions

 

Following the precautionary methods given below will help you to mitigate the harmful side effects of this medication.

 

 Do not drive after taking this drug since it can lead to drowsiness and can impair your thinking.

 

 Do not double your dose in case you missed one. Stick to your normal schedule.

 

 Make sure to use a measuring spoon if you are taking the medication in liquid form.

 

 Do not consume this medication during periods of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

 

 Inform your pharmacist about your medical history to ensure that Zofran does not react negatively with your other medications.

 

 Do not take this drug if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

 

Self Administration

 

It is important to note that this medication will not help to alleviate regular vomiting and nausea since it is only capable of treating aftereffects caused by cancer or surgical treatments. Thus, do not take this medication for usual vomiting and nausea.

 

If you experience more vomiting than usual, do not increase your dosage without informing your physician. This can increase the risk of side effects to a greater extent.