What Is Ondansetron (Zofran)?

Potential Side Effects

Potential side effects of ondansetron include confusion, dizziness, fever, and shortness of breath. Patients could experience an increased heart rate, and weakness may develop. Other common side effects include constipation, diarrhea, blurry vision, skin rashes, and muscle spasms. Although less common, decreases in urinary frequency and volume have occurred. Breathing difficulties, swallowing issues, dry mouth, and loss of appetite are examples of possible rare side effects. Patients should report any stomach pain, muscle spasms, or vision changes to their healthcare professional immediately, and they should seek emergency medical care if they develop chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or muscle twitches. Emergency care is also necessary if the patient develops hallucinations or unusual agitation.

Discover some precautions to keep in mind when taking ondansetron next.

Precautions To Remember

Before taking this medication, patients should inform their doctor about any history of liver disease, long QT syndrome, low potassium, congestive heart failure, or intestinal blockages. The doctor will also need to know if the patient has phenylketonuria. Patients who are allergic to dolasetron, granisetron, or palonosetron should not use ondansetron. This drug can be taken with or without food, and the regular tablet should be taken with a full glass of water. The liquid form of ondansetron should be dosed with the provided dosing syringe, and it must be stored in an upright position. Patients using the disintegrating tablet should peel back the foil on the blister pack when it is time for their dose. Using dry hands, they should remove the tablet from the package. The tablet should be allowed to dissolve in the mouth, and patients should not chew it. After the tablet dissolves, the patient should swallow several times.

All forms of this medicine need to be stored away from light, heat, and moisture. Since ondansetron could impair the patient's reaction time, experts suggest individuals who use it refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery until they have had time to determine how the medication affects them. Ondansetron should be used with caution during pregnancy, and some experts believe pregnant individuals should only take it as a last resort. Doctors do not know if ondansetron passes into breastmilk, and patients who are breastfeeding should discuss the risks and benefits of ondansetron with their doctor.

Learn about the potential medication interactions next.