| Why
is Zofran prescribed?
Zofran is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy,
radiation therapy, anesthesia, and surgery.
Ondansetron
is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist
for more information.
How
should Zofran be used?
Zofran comes as a tablet and in an injectable form. The tablets
may be taken with or without food. The first dose of Ondansetron
usually is taken in a hospital or clinic 30 minutes before chemotherapy
is begun. The second dose is taken 4 hours after the first dose,
and the third dose is taken 8 hours after the first dose. Your doctor
also may want you take one tablet every 8 hours for 1 or 2 days
after chemotherapy. Follow the directions on your 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. Ondansetron injections are given by qualified health
care professionals.
Zofran : Full
Prescribing Information
What special precautions should I follow?
Before
taking Zofran, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic
to Ondansetron, dolasetron (Anzemet), granisetron (Kytril), or any
other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what
medications you are taking, including vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or
are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Ondansetron,
call your doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is
almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.
What
side effects can Zofran cause?
Although
side effects from Zofran are not common, they can occur. Tell your
doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
diarrhea
headache
constipation
rash
lightheadedness
dry mouth
drowsiness
If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:
difficulty
breathing
chest pain
What storage conditions are needed for Zofran?
Keep Ondansetron in the container it came in, tightly closed, and
out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away
from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away
any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your
pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What
other information should I know?
Keep
all appointments with your doctor.
Do
not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any
questions you have.
Zofran : Full
Prescribing Information
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