Zofran ODT (Ondansetron)

Do’s

• Zofran ODT is designed to be placed on the tongue, where it will dissolve. It should not be chewed or swallowed like other tablet forms.
• If using the blister pack, peel back the foil to remove a tablet. Once removed, place it on the tongue, allow it to dissolve completely, and then swallow it with saliva. There is no need to take it with water.
• To prevent nausea from chemotherapy, take Zofran ODT usually within 30 minutes before treatment begins. For nausea from radiation treatment, take it 1 to 2 hours before the start of treatment. For postoperative nausea, take it 1 hour before the start of surgery. It may be taken with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Take any other doses as directed by your healthcare provider. It may be taken up to 3 times a day for 1 to 2 days after chemotherapy or radiation treatment is finished.
• Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. For children, the dosage may also be based on age and weight. In patients with severe liver problems, the usual maximum dose is 8 milligrams in 24 hours. Take Zofran ODT exactly as directed.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Don’t

Do not push the tablet through the foil.

Do not take more medication or take it more often than prescribed. 

Common side effects:

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Tired feeling

Serious side effects:

• Fast or pounding heartbeats
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Blurred vision or temporary vision loss (lasting from only a few minutes to several hours)
• High levels of serotonin in the body--agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, fainting 

Other side effects may also occur. Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. 

You should not use Zofran ODT if you are also using apomorphine (Apokyn).

You should not use Zofran ODT if you are allergic to Zofran ODT or similar medicines (dolasetron, granisetron, palonosetron).

To ensure Zofran ODT is safe for you, inform your healthcare provider if you have any existing medical conditions.

Zofran ODT may cause myocardial ischemia. Patients should seek immediate medical help if symptoms suggestive of myocardial ischemia occur, such as sudden chest pain or chest tightness.

Zofran ODT may mask signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction. Patients should immediately report any signs or symptoms consistent with a potential bowel obstruction to their healthcare provider.

When using Zofran ODT, patients should not remove the tablets from the blister until just prior to dosing.

Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure the safe and appropriate use of Zofran ODT.