Zofran has active ingredients of ondansetron hydrochloride. It is often used in nausea. eHealthMe is studying from 77,792 Zofran users for its effectiveness, alternative drugs and more. What is Zantac? Zantac has active ingredients of ranitidine hydrochloride.
Full Answer
Can Zofran help you get through chemo?
My little Zofran pills — and other drugs like steroids and Ativan that amplify the anti-nausea effect — made it possible for me to get through chemo (and radiation) without throwing up once. Yes, I was queasy and yes, there were close calls, but I never once lost my cookies. Instead, I was able to eat cookies.
How often can you take Zofran for cancer treatment?
Then administer twice a day for 1 to 2 days after completion of the chemotherapy. May be given to children aged 4 and older. The usual starting dose is 4mg for those aged 4 to 11 years of age or 8mg for those aged 12 to 17 years of age. Zofran is available as a generic under the name ondansetron.
Is it safe to take Zofran ODT?
Staying healthy while taking Zofran ODT means sticking to a few essential principles. When prescribed this medication, whether it's for an FDA-approved indication or off-label use (e.g., pregnancy or gastroparesis), be open and ask your healthcare provider specifically why it is safe and reasonable for you to take.
What is the difference between ondansetron and Zofran?
Ondansetron may be used for the prevention or treatment of nausea and vomiting but it may cause constipation or a headache. Prescribed for Nausea/Vomiting, Nausea/Vomiting - Chemotherapy Induced... Zofran may be used for the treatment and prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
What is the best nausea medicine for cancer patients?
However, if the chemotherapy is likely to cause nausea and vomiting, your doctor may prescribe one or more of the following common anti-nausea medications:Aprepitant (Emend®)Dolasetron (Anzemet®)Granisetron (Kytril®)Ondansetron (Zofran®)Palonosetron (Aloxi®)Proclorperazine (Compazine®)More items...
Does Zofran help with chemo?
This medication is used alone or with other medications to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer drug treatment (chemotherapy) and radiation therapy. It is also used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting after surgery.
Why is Zofran given before chemo?
Ondansetron is usually given in an outpatient infusion center before chemotherapy to prevent nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron may also be taken at home for breakthrough nausea or vomiting.
Is Zofran given to cancer patients?
Ondansetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.
Why was Zofran taken off the market?
FDA Drug Safety Communications & Zofran Recall In 2012, the 32 mg intravenous dose of Zofran was pulled from the market due to concerns that it could trigger QT interval prolongation, a heart rhythm disorder that could lead to an abnormal and potentially fatal heart rhythm called Torsades de Pointes.
When should you not take Zofran?
You should not use Zofran if you are allergic to ondansetron or to similar medicines such as dolasetron (Anzemet), granisetron (Kytril), or palonosetron (Aloxi). Zofran orally disintegrating tablets may contain phenylalanine. Tell your doctor if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
Do chemo treatments get worse each time?
The effects of chemo are cumulative. They get worse with each cycle. My doctors warned me: Each infusion will get harder. Each cycle, expect to feel weaker.
How do you get rid of nausea from chemo?
8 Tips for Managing Chemotherapy-Induced NauseaAvoid your favorite food. ... Talk to your doctor about nausea medications. ... Avoid strong smells. ... Avoid warm foods. ... Eat every 2-3 hours. ... Eat what you want to eat. ... Drink liquids in-between meals/snacks. ... Use ginger and peppermint.
How many days after chemo Do you feel sick?
Acute nausea and vomiting happens within a few minutes to a few hours after you get chemo. It is usually worst during the first 4 to 6 hours after treatment and goes away within 24 hours. Delayed nausea and vomiting usually does not start until 24 hours or more after you get chemo. It can last for several days.
What are the most common side effects of Zofran?
Common side effects associated with Zofran include headache, drowsiness, constipation and the chills. In clinical trials of patients taking Zofran to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, nearly a quarter of patients taking 8 mg of the drug twice daily experienced a headache.
What should you not take with Zofran?
Most frequently checked interactionsalbuterol.aspirin.Ativan (lorazepam)Benadryl (diphenhydramine)Cymbalta (duloxetine)gabapentin.ibuprofen.levothyroxine.More items...
Should I take Zofran before chemo?
Take as directed. May be taken with or without food. When used to prevent nausea associated with chemotherapy, Zofran is usually taken 30 minutes before chemotherapy.
What is Zofran used for?
more. Zofran may be used for the treatment and prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. It is approved for use in children over the age of 4, and a headache... View. more.
Can Zofran cause headaches?
Zofran ondansetron. Remove Zofran from your drug comparison. Ondansetron may be used for the prevention or treatment of nausea and vomiting but it may cause constipation or a headache. Prescribed for Nausea/Vomiting, Nausea/Vomiting - Chemotherapy Induced... View.
What Is Zofran ODT?
Zofran ODT (ondansetron) is an antiemetic drug that helps prevent nausea and vomiting. This prescription medication dissolves on the top of your tongue and works by preventing a chemical called serotonin from reaching certain cells in the brain.
What Is Zofran ODT Used For?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Zofran ODT to prevent: 1
What Are the Side Effects of Zofran ODT?
This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. A medical professional can advise you on side effects. If you experience other effects, contact your pharmacist or a medical professional. You may report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.
Dosage: How Much Zofran ODT Should I Take?
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
Overdose: What Happens If I Take Too Much Zofran ODT?
Cases of accidental Zofran overdose in children have been reported. Their symptoms were consistent with serotonin syndrome.
Precautions
Check with your doctor if severe nausea and vomiting continue after leaving the hospital or cancer treatment center.
What Other Medications Interact With Zofran ODT?
When taken with Zofran ODT, several medications may increase your risk of developing serotonin syndrome. Along with Zofran ODT, if you are taking a medicine that increases serotonin levels in the body, your doctor may need to choose a different treatment or monitor you more closely.
What is the difference between Ondansetron and Dramamine?
Ondansetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy and to prevent vomiting and nausea after surgery. Dramamine is used for prevention and treatment of symptoms associated with motion sickness including nausea, vomiting, and di zziness .
What are the side effects of Ondansetron?
Side effects of ondansetron that are different from Dramamine include headache, feeling unwell (malaise), fatigue, dizziness, diarrhea, and abnormal heart rate and rhythm. Side effects of Dramamine that are different from ondansetron include blurred vision and dry mouth /nose/throat.
How long does it take to take Ondansetron?
Moderately nauseating chemotherapy: Take 8 mg tablet 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy and repeat in 8 hours, then 8 mg every 12 hours for 1 to 2 days after chemotherapy.
Is Dramamine an OTC drug?
Dramamine is a brand name for dimenhydrinate. Dramamine is available over-the-counter (OTC). Ondansetron and Dramamine belong to different drug classes. Ondansetron is a serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist, and Dramamine is an antihistamine. Side effects of ondansetron and Dramamine that are similar include drowsiness and constipation.
Does dronedarone increase ondansetron?
Dronedarone can increase blood levels of ondansetron by reducing its breakdown in the liver. This may increase side effects of ondansetron. This combination may also increase the risk of abnormal heartbeats.
Can you take Ondansetron and Apomorphine together?
Ondansetron and apomorphine should not be used together due to sudden lowering in blood pressure and loss of consciousness. Phenytoin, carbamazepine, and rifampin can increase ondansetron elimination and decrease blood levels, possibly lowering the effects of ondansetron.
Does Ondansetron cause nausea?
Chemotherapy agents increase secretion of serotonin, which stimulates serotonin (5-HT3) receptors in the brain, causing nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron works by selectively blocking serotonin (5-HT3) receptors, reducing the effect of increased serotonin due to chemotherapy. It is also prescribed to prevent vomiting and nausea after surgery.
What is Zofran used for?
Zofran is a brand (trade) name for ondansetron which may be used to treat or prevent nausea and vomiting. Experts aren't sure exactly how Zofran (ondansetron) works and if its antiemetic action is mediated by a direct effect on the CTZ (the area of the brain associated with vomiting), the vagus nerve, or both.
When to take Zofran before surgery?
When used to prevent nausea associated with surgery, Zofran is usually taken one hour before anesthesia. The dose of Zofran orally disintegrating tablets is the same as Zofran solution. When taking the orally disintegrating tablets, peel back the foil (do not attempt to push the tablet through the foil).
How long after chemo do you give 8mg?
For moderately emetogenic chemotherapy, an 8mg dose administered 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy with a subsequent 8mg dose administered 8 hours after the first dose. Then administer twice a day for 1 to 2 days after completion of the chemotherapy. May be given to children aged 4 and older.
What to do if Zofran makes you dizzy?
If Zofran makes you dizzy or drowsy, do not drive or operate machinery while affected and avoid alcohol. Tell your doctor or other health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What medications affect serotonin?
other medications that affect serotonin, such as amphetamines, fentanyl, tramadol, triptans ( eg, almotriptan, eletriptan, or sumatriptan), or St. John's Wort . Note that this list is not all-inclusive and includes only common medications that may interact with Zofran.
Is Zofran an oral solution?
Zofran is available as tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and an oral solution. Tablets and orally disintegrating tablets are available in 4mg and 8mg strengths. Zofran oral solution is 4mg/5mL with a strawberry odor.
Is Zofran a dopamine receptor antagonist?
Zofran is not a dopamine‑receptor antagonist. Zofran belongs to the class of medicines known as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. 2. Upsides. Effective for the prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, including highly emetogenic (a high probability of causing vomiting) chemotherapy.
Can I stop taking Zantac?
If you’ve long been taking Zantac, you may wish to stop taking that medication. However, don’t do so without asking for advice from your doctor. You may have gotten dependent on this medicine, so it’s best that you also give your body ample time to adjust to the withdrawal.
Is Zantac recalled?
As issued by the FDA, there’s now a global recall of Zantac. For the many patients that have cancer claims, lawsuits are also on the rise. Unfortunately for these patients, while their heartburn may have been cured, they also had cancer, or are now at risk for cancer, in exchange (or, at least, that’s what they lawyers claim).
Can NDMA cause cancer?
Even with just a little exposure to NDMA, cancer risk is still probable. For patients that have long been dependent on Zantac use, this risk also increases. Additionally, fetal or newborn death was seen when pregnant women take NDMA.
Is Zantac a generic drug?
In its generic form, Zantac is also known as ranitidine. In 1988, it was one of the most widely used prescription medicines, until it was later made available for over-the-counter use. This fact is precisely the reason for its excellent ability in treating heartburn.
What is the difference between Ondansetron and Metoclopramide?
Summary. Ondansetron and metoclopramide are used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron is most often used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy and to prevent vomiting and nausea after surgery. Metoclopramide is used to relieve heartburn symptoms with gastroesophageal reflux when certain other treatments do ...
How does Ondansetron work?
Ondansetron works by selectively blocking serotonin (5-HT3) receptors, thereby reducing the effect of increased serotonin due to chemotherapy. It is also prescribed for prevention of nausea and vomiting after surgery. Metoclopramide is a "prokinetic" drug that stimulates the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract including the muscles ...
What is Ondansetron used for?
Ondansetron is an anti-nausea medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting that results from cancer chemotherapy. Chemotherapy agents cause increased secretion of serotonin, which stimulates serotonin (5-HT3) receptors in the brain, resulting in nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron works by selectively blocking serotonin (5-HT3) receptors, ...
What is the best medicine for heartburn?
Metoclopramide is used to relieve heartburn symptoms with gastroesophageal reflux when certain other treatments do not work and to relieve the symptoms of slow stomach emptying in people with diabetes. Brand names for ondansetron include Zofran, Zofran ODT, and Zuplenz. Brand names for metoclopramide include Reglan and Metozolv ODT.
What are the side effects of Ondansetron?
Side effects of ondansetron that are different from metoclopramide include headache, feeling unwell (malaise), constipation, dizziness, diarrhea, and abnormal heart rate and rhythm. Side effects of metoclopramide that are different from ondansetron include restlessness, anxiety, insomnia, depression, and sedation.
How long does it take to take Ondansetron?
Moderately nauseating chemotherapy: Take 8 mg tablet 30 minutes prior to chemotherapy and repeat in 8 hours, then 8 mg every 12 hours for 1 to 2 days after chemotherapy.
Does dronedarone increase ondansetron?
Dronedarone can increase blood levels of ondansetron by reducing its breakdown in the liver. This may increase side effects of ondansetron. This combination may also increase the risk of abnormal heartbeats.
How long can you be on chemo?
At most, side effects are very short-lived while you’re getting the chemo or for two or three days after treatment. Late-stage cancer patients may be on them longer, depending on their treatment.”.
What is the minimal risk of radiation?
Minimal risk, for drugs that make you throw up less than 10 percent of the time. There’s also a breakdown for what anti-nausea drugs work best for high, moderate, low and minimal doses of radiation, which can also make patients sick to their stomach.
Do oncologists give patients anti nausea meds?
Today, there are dozens of drugs to help control nausea and vomiting — not just multiple agents, but multiple classes of agents — and oncologists are advised to give patients the optimal anti-nausea meds, as Lyman put it, “right out of the gate.”
Can chemos cause vomiting?
Providers also have a better understanding of which chemos are the most likely to trigger the brain stem’s vomit center and by how much.
What is the Zofran tablet?
ZOFRAN tablets are oval, film-coated tablets engraved with “Zofran” on one side and are available in the following strengths: 4 mg - white tablet with “4” engraved on the other side. 8 mg - yellow tablet with “8” engraved on the other side.
What are the adverse reactions to Zofran?
The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 2%) reported in patients receiving ZOFRAN and concurrent radiotherapy were similar to those reported in patients receiving ZOFRAN and concurrent chemotherapy and were headache, constipation, and diarrhea.
What is the active ingredient in Zofran?
The active ingredient in ZOFRAN tablets and ZOFRAN oral solution is ondansetron hydrochloride as the dihydrate, the racemic form of ondansetron and a selective blocking agent of the serotonin 5-HT 3 receptor type.
How long does it take to take 8 mg of chemo?
Dosage Regimen. Moderately Emetogenic Cancer Chemotherapy. 12 to 17 years of age: 8 mg administered 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy, with a subsequent 8-mg dose 8 hours after the first dose. Then administer 8 mg twice a day (every 12 hours) for 1 to 2 days after completion of chemotherapy.
What is 4 mg of Zofran?
4 mg (ondansetron hydrochloride dihydrate equivalent to 4 mg of ondansetron), are white, oval, film-coated tablets engraved with “Zofran” on one side and “4” on the other in bottles of 30 tablets (NDC 0078-0675-15).
Does Ondansetron inhibit P450?
Ondansetron does not itself appear to induce or inhibit the cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzyme system of the liver [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ]. Because ondansetron is metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P450 drug-metabolizing enzymes (CYP3A4, CYP2D6, CYP1A2), inducers or inhibitors of these enzymes may change the clearance and, hence, the half-life of ondansetron. In patients treated with potent inducers of CYP3A4 (i.e., phenytoin, carbamazepine, and rifampin), the clearance of ondansetron was significantly increased and ondansetron blood concentrations were decreased. However, on the basis of available data, no dosage adjustment for ZOFRAN is recommended for patients on these drugs [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ].
Is Ondansetron a white powder?
Ondansetron hydrochloride dihydrate is a white to off-white powder that is soluble in water and normal saline. The active ingredient in ZOFRAN ODT orally disintegrating tablets is ondansetron base, the racemic form of ondansetron, and a selective blocking agent of the serotonin 5- HT 3 receptor type.