What is Zofran?
Zofran (also called Ondansetron) is a medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting due to multiple situations. For example, doctors give patients Zofran after chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. In fact, Zofran decreases the production of Serotonin, a chemical that induces vomiting.
Plus, Zofran helps treat Hangovers, Bulimia, Celiac Disease, Flu & Stomach Flu, Food Poisoning, GI Diseases, Heat Exhaustion, Kidney Stones, Medication Side Effects, and PMS.
How is Zofran used?
Depending on the situation, Zofran is used in different ways. For example, this is how Zofran is used after:
- Chemotherapy. Take Zofran by mouth 30 minutes before treatment to prevent nausea and vomiting.
- Radiation therapy. Take Zofran by mouth 1-2 hours before treatment to prevent nausea and vomiting.
- Surgery. Take Zofran by mouth 1 hour before surgery to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Although Zofran can be taken with or without food, your doctor may tell you not to eat before surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Also, if taking liquid Zofran, use a measuring spoon or device to measure out the prescription. Do NOT use a regular spoon as it could be the incorrect dose. If patients use Zofran to prevent nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy or radiation therapy, they can take it up to three times a day for 1-2 days after they finish treatment. In addition, doctors prescribe dosages based on age and weight. Those with severe liver problems can only take up to 8mg within 24 hours. Take Zofran exactly as directed by your doctor.
What are the side effects of Zofran?
Just like most medications, Zofran causes a few minor side effects. For example, Zofran may cause:
- Constipation
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
If any of the above side effects continue or get worse, contact your doctor immediately. Unfortunately, Zofran may also cause severe side effects. Patients taking Zofran must contact their doctor immediately if they experience:
- Muscle twitches/stiffness
- Vision changes (blurred, temporary loss of vision, etc.)
- Stomach pain
Further, patients taking Zofran should seek immediate medical care if they have side effects, such as:
- Chest pain
- Fainting
- Irregular/fast/slow heartbeat
- Severe dizziness
Although rare, Zofran may cause increased serotonin levels. As a result, patients may develop serotonin syndrome/toxicity. Seek immediate medical care if you have these symptoms while taking Zofran:
- Fast heartbeat
- Loss of coordination
- Hallucinations
- Muscle twitches
- Severe stomach upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Unexplained fever
- Severe dizziness
- Unusual restlessness or agitation
Finally, Zofran rarely causes allergic reactions. However, it is still possible. Seek immediate medical care if you experience side effects like:
- Severe dizziness
- Rash
- Itching/swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Trouble breathing
These are not a complete list of side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any side effects not stated above.
