Zofran Injection: A Comprehensive Guide to Ondansetron Administration

Zofran (ondansetron) is a medication used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. It is also used to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Zofran works by blocking the effects of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that triggers nausea and vomiting.

How is Zofran Injection Administered?

Zofran injection is a clear, colorless solution that is given intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). The usual dose for adults is 8 mg given as a single injection 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy or radiation therapy. For PONV, the usual dose is 4 mg given as a single injection 30 minutes before surgery.

Side Effects of Zofran Injection

The most common side effects of Zofran injection include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Rash
• Hives
• Flushing
• Palpitations

These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few days. However, if any side effects are severe or persistent, it is important to contact a doctor.

Precautions

Zofran injection should be used with caution in patients with:

• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• A history of seizures

Zofran injection should not be used by patients who are allergic to ondansetron or any of the other ingredients in the medication.

Drug Interactions

Zofran injection can interact with several other medications, including:

• Apomorphine
• Benzodiazepines
• Calcium channel blockers
• Carbamazepine
• Cyclosporine
• Digoxin
• Erythromycin
• Fluconazole
• Grapefruit juice
• Ketoconazole
• Levodopa
• Metoclopramide
• Nefazodone
• Phenytoin
• Rifampin
• Tramadol
• Verapamil

It is important to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before starting Zofran injection.

Monitoring

Patients receiving Zofran injection should be monitored for side effects, especially QT prolongation. QT prolongation is a rare but serious condition that can lead to heart problems. If QT prolongation occurs, Zofran injection should be stopped and the patient should be evaluated by a doctor.

Storage

Zofran injection should be stored at room temperature (20°C to 25°C). Do not freeze or refrigerate. Protect from light.

Other Information

• Zofran injection is available in 2 mg/mL and 4 mg/mL vials.
• The usual dose for adults is 8 mg given as a single injection 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• The usual dose for PONV is 4 mg given as a single injection 30 minutes before surgery.
• The most common side effects of Zofran injection include headache, dizziness, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash, hives, flushing, and palpitations.
• Zofran injection should be used with caution in patients with liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, or a history of seizures.
• Zofran injection should not be used by patients who are allergic to ondansetron or any of the other ingredients in the medication.
• Zofran injection can interact with several other medications.
• Patients receiving Zofran injection should be monitored for side effects, especially QT prolongation.
• Zofran injection should be stored at room temperature (20°C to 25°C). Do not freeze or refrigerate. Protect from light.

Tables

Table 1: Dosing of Zofran Injection

Table 2: Side Effects of Zofran Injection

Table 3: Drug Interactions with Zofran Injection