Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ONDANSETRON ORAL DISINTEGRATING TABLET

(on-DANCE-eh-tron)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zofran ODT

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.

How To Use

This medication is dissolved on top of the tongue. It is not meant to be chewed or swallowed like other tablet forms. Dry your hands before peeling back the foil to remove a tablet. Do not try to push the tablet through the foil. Immediately after removing the tablet from its blister pack, place the tablet on your tongue where it will dissolve in seconds. After it dissolves, swallow it with saliva. Drinking a liquid is not necessary. 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 (especially drug allergies). Limit alcohol intake, as it may intensify drug side effects. Use 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. Symptoms of overdose may include change in vision, severe constipation, severe dizziness, or irregular heartbeat.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

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

These tablets may be stored in or out of the refrigerator between 36 and 86 degrees F (2 and 30 degrees C).

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).