Ondansetron

ONDANSETRON - ORAL (on-DANCE-eh-tron)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zofran

USES: This medication is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy or after surgery. It works by blocking the hormone (serotonin) that causes vomiting.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to treat alcoholism.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: This medication may be taken with or without food. It may also be taken with antacids. The first dose is usually taken 30 minutes before chemotherapy. Take further doses as directed, usually for 1-2 days after completion of chemotherapy. Other medical conditions and procedures require different dosing schedules. Follow your doctor's orders carefully.

SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea or constipation, headache, lightheadedness or drowsiness (uncommon), as well as blurred vision may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Very unlikely but report promptly: chest pain. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: stomach/intestinal problems (e.g., distension), allergies. Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify drug side effects. Caution performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving) until you know how this medication affects you. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medicines you may use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

MISSED DOSE: Try to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Tablets may be stored in or out of the refrigerator between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 and 30 degrees C). Store liquid form between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C).