Zofran to Prevent Nausea and Vomiting (Ondansetron)
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Indications
Zofran is a drug that is primarily indicated for preventing nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. This medication works by blocking the action of serotonin, a natural substance in the body that can cause nausea and vomiting.
In addition to its primary indications, Zofran is sometimes used off-label to treat nausea and vomiting in patients with other gastrointestinal problems, such as gastroenteritis or irritable bowel syndrome. However, it is important to note that the safety and effectiveness of Zofran for these uses have not been fully established and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Zofran is available as an oral tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, and injection. The dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on the patient’s condition, medical history, and other factors. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by a healthcare provider.
Cost in the US
Below is a table of the different indications for Zofran and their associated costs in the USA:
| Indication | Dosage | Cost (USD) per tablet |
|---|---|---|
| Chemotherapy-induced | 8 mg tablet | $9.20 |
| Radiation-induced | 8 mg tablet | $9.20 |
| Postoperative nausea and vomiting | 4 mg tablet | $8.40 |
| Gastrointestinal problems | 4 mg tablet | $8.40 |
Note: The above costs are approximate and may vary depending on the location and pharmacy. It is important to consult with your doctor and insurance provider to determine the actual cost of Zofran for your specific condition.
How to Take Zofran
To prevent vomiting and nausea, Zofran is administered in three doses through injection. The initial dose of 0.15 mg/kg is given 30 minutes prior to starting chemotherapy, with the second and third doses given four and eight hours after the first dose, respectively. Before administering the Zofran injection, it should be diluted in 50 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride injection or 5% dextrose injection. The dosage for pediatric patients is the same as that for adults.
For post-operative nausea prevention, an undiluted Zofran injection of 4 mg is administered intravenously. The recommended dosage for pediatric patients is a single dose of 0.1 mg/kg, which should be administered over a period of 2 to 5 minutes.
Precautions and Side Effects
If you are considering taking Zofran orally disintegrating tablets, it’s important to note that they contain phenylalanine. Therefore, consult with your doctor to determine if this is the right medication for your treatment. Patients who are allergic to ondansetron, palonosetron, dolasetron, and granisetron should avoid taking Zofran.
Patients suffering from liver disease and Long QT syndrome require special dosage adjustments, and it is important to consult with your doctor before taking Zofran during pregnancy.
Like all medications, Zofran may cause side effects in some patients. These side effects include shivering, anxiety, decreased urine output, slow heart rate, blurred vision, diarrhea, headache, and fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to contact your doctor.