How does this medicine work?

Ondansetron (on-dan-se-tron) is a medicine used to treat and prevent nausea and vomiting with chemotherapy and after surgery.

How is it given?

Odansetron may be given by mouth as a liquid, pill, or tablet; or in a vein (IV). It may be given in one of these ways:

  • as needed
  • at regular times
  • continuously through an IV

Your child should be awake and alert when taking any medicine by mouth. Follow the checked instructions below:

    • If using the liquid form, draw up the correct amount in the medicine dropper or oral syringe. Give a small squirt of the medicine inside the cheek. To avoid choking, let your child swallow each squirt before giving more.
    • For babies, you may want to mix the medicine with a small amount of formula or breast milk and give it with a bottle nipple before feeding. Do not add the medicine to a whole bottle because if your baby does not finish it, you will not know how much of the medicine was taken.
    • For older children who cannot swallow pills, a special tablet called Zofran ODT (oral disintegrating tablet) is available.Place it under the tongue and it will dissolve.

Other instructions:

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Are there any precautions about food or other medicines?

This medicine may be given with or without food.

Check with the doctor, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist before giving any other prescription or non-prescription medicines, herbs, or vitamins.

What should I do if a dose is missed?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you remember. Never give a double dose.

If your child vomits a regular dose (not of the ODT type) within 30 minutes after receiving it, give it again. If your child vomits the second dose, do not repeat it again. If your child vomits an ODT dose, do not repeat it. Zofran ODT is absorbed into the body right away.

If your child misses or vomits two doses in a row, please call the clinic.

What are the side effects?

Common

  • headache
  • constipation

Occasional

  • fatigue
  • change in liver tests (with long-term use)
  • diarrhea
  • feeling dizzy

Spinal fluid administration can cause:

Central nervous system changes such as

  • drowsiness
  • blurred vision
  • headache or backache
  • tingling or numbness in arms or legs
  • seizures

When should I call the clinic?

Call hematology helpline 982403210 if:

  • continued vomiting after 2 doses
  • signs of allergic reaction:
    • fever or chills
    • rash or hives
    • wheezing
    • trouble breathing

What else do I need to know?

You and your child should know the names and doses of all medicines he or she is taking. It is important to share this information with anyone involved in your child’s care. Please remember to bring the medicine container when your child comes to the clinic or emergency department.

Always make sure you have enough medicine on hand. Each time you refill the prescription, check as the pharmacy may need 2 or 3 days to order fresh medication.

Check the label for the expiration date. Flush outdated medicines down the toilet instead of putting them in the garbage.

Store all medicines in their original containers and away from direct sunlight or heat. Do not store in humid places such as the bathroom. Keep them out of children’s reach; lock up if possible.

If too much or the wrong kind of medicine is taken, call the clinic immediately. If your child is unconscious or has a seizure, call 112.

Questions?

This sheet is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call:

Hematology Clinic
3rd floor, Kedar
Opp.Krupa Petrol Pump,
Parimal Garden, Ambawadi
Clinic: 07926463219
Whattsapp: 8238065890