ondansetron
Brand names: ondansetron hydrochloride
# Overview of Ondansetron Ondansetron is a medicine used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting in patients, especially those receiving chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or recovering from surgery. It works by blocking chemicals in the body that trigger the feeling of nausea. This medication can help patients feel more comfortable during medical treatments and recover better after procedures. Ondansetron comes in different forms, including tablets and liquids, making it easy for doctors to prescribe the right dose for each patient. While ondansetron is generally safe and effective, there are some important safety points to know. You should tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, because ondansetron can interact with certain drugs, especially those used to treat depression or anxiety. In rare cases, taking ondansetron with these medicines together could cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome, which involves confusion, rapid heartbeat, and muscle stiffness. If you experience unusual symptoms after taking this medicine, contact your doctor right away. Always take ondansetron exactly as prescribed and report any side effects to your healthcare provider.
Known Interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS 7.1 Serotonergic Drugs Serotonin syndrome (including altered mental status, autonomic instability, and neuromuscular symptoms) has been described following the concomitant use of 5-HT 3 receptor antagonists and other serotonergic drugs, including SSRIs and SNRIs. Monitor for the emergence of serotonin syndrome. If symptoms occur, discontinue ondansetron and initiate supportive treatment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3) ]. 7.2 Drugs Affecting Cytochrome P-450 Enzymes Ondansetron does not itself appear to induce or inhibit the cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzyme system of the liver [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Because ondansetron is metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P-450 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 ondansetr
Source: FDA-approved drug labeling via openFDA
Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)
- NAUSEA13,439 reports
- FATIGUE9,377 reports
- DIARRHOEA8,859 reports
- VOMITING8,286 reports
- OFF LABEL USE7,373 reports
- DYSPNOEA5,566 reports
- PYREXIA5,366 reports
- DEATH5,331 reports
- HEADACHE5,225 reports
- PAIN5,178 reports
Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.
Check interactions with ondansetron:
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.