Classification: FDA-approved Antiemetic ( anti-nausea )

Indications:

• Zofran is often used in patients with nausea caused by surgery, chemotherapy, migraines, pregnancy or vomiting caused by an illness.  

Mechanism of Action: 

• Zofran (Ondansetron) works by blocking the actions of chemicals in the body that trigger nausea and vomiting
  • Zofran is a serotonin antagonist that blocks the serotonin 5-HT3 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) within the medulla oblongata; the CTZ communicates with the vomiting center of our brain. Therefore, by blocking the amount of serotonin entering the CTZ, there is a decrease in communication and stimulation of the vomiting center, leading to decreased nausea and vomiting. 

Dosage:

• The recommended adult intravenous dosage of Zofran is 0.15mg/kg up to a maximum of 16mg per dose. It is important to note that maximum dosages are reserved for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Most post-operative nausea and vomiting as well as illness induced nausea is controlled with a dose of 4mg.
• The recommended adult intramuscular dosage of Zofran is a single dose of 4mg injected into either gluteus maximus. 

Considerations:

• Do not use if: 
  • Allergic to Ondansetron, Dolasetron (Anzemet), Granisetron (Kytril) or Palonosetron (Aloxi).
• Tell your provider if you have a history of:
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
  • Personal or family history of long QT syndrome
  • Heart arrhythmias
  • Currently on any psychotropic medications 

Potential Side Effects: 

• Diarrhea
• Dizziness 
• Drowsiness