Zofran: use, side effects and special instructions
Zofran, or Ondansetron, is an antiemetic drug used to prevent nausea and vomiting during cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and in the postoperative period. The drug is available in various dosage forms: tablets, injection solution, syrup and suppositories.
Zofran is manufactured by Glaxo Wellcome and GlaxoSmithKline in countries including the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Indonesia, Canada and others. The active ingredient is Ondansetron.
Like any medicine, Zofran can cause side effects. These may include constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, hiccups, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, feelings of warmth and flushing, central nervous system depression, convulsions, hypokalemia, tachycardia or bradycardia, hypotension, fainting, chest pain. , ECG abnormalities, fever and allergic reactions, including urticaria, bronchospasm, angioedema and anaphylaxis.
The drug has its contraindications. For example, Zofran is not recommended for hypersensitivity to the active substance, liver failure, abdominal surgery, pregnancy (especially in the first three months), breastfeeding, as well as during radiation therapy for all age groups and when prescribing suppositories. For children under 2 years of age, Zofran is not recommended during anesthesia, and under 4 years of age during chemotherapy.
It should also be taken into account that Zofran is not recommended to be administered in the same syringe with other drugs, and injection forms must be diluted only with recommended solutions. Compatibility with infusion solutions of sodium and potassium chloride, glucose, mannitol, Ringer's, cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, carboplatin and etoposide has been studied.
According to the manufacturers, there is no evidence of overdose with Zofran. However, if you suspect an overdose, you should seek medical help.
In conclusion, Zofran is an effective antiemetic agent during cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and in the postoperative period. However, before using it, you must pay attention to contraindications, possible side effects and special instructions, and also consult your doctor.