ONDANSETRON (on DAN se tron) prevents nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. It works by blocking substances in the body that may cause nausea or vomiting. It belongs to a group of medications called antiemetics.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Heart disease
History of irregular heartbeat
Liver disease
Low levels of magnesium or potassium in the blood
An unusual or allergic reaction to ondansetron, granisetron, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
These tablets are made to dissolve in the mouth. Do not try to push the tablet through the foil backing. With dry hands, peel away the foil backing and gently remove the tablet. Place the tablet in the mouth and allow it to dissolve, then swallow. While you may take these tablets with water, it is not necessary to do so.
Talk to your care team regarding the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
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CHAT NOWWhat may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
Apomorphine
Certain medications for fungal infections like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole
Cisapride
Dronedarone
Pimozide
Thioridazine
This medication may also interact with the following:
Carbamazepine
Certain medications for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
Fentanyl
Linezolid
MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
Methylene blue (injected into a vein)
Other medications that prolong the QT interval (cause an abnormal heart rhythm) like dofetilide, ziprasidone
Phenytoin
Rifampicin
Tramadol
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Bowel blockage—stomach cramping, unable to have a bowel movement or pass gas, loss of appetite, vomiting
Chest pain (angina)—pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest, neck, back, or arms
Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing
Irritability, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat, muscle stiffness, twitching muscles, sweating, high fever, seizure, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, which may be signs of serotonin syndrome
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Constipation
Diarrhea
General discomfort and fatigue
Headache
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Check with your care team as soon as you can if you have any sign of an allergic reaction.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store between 2 and 30 degrees C (36 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
