Ondansetron

(on-dan-sah-tron)

Other names for this medication: Zofran

•Used to treat and prevent vomiting

•May be given with or without food

•Usually tolerated well, but side effects such as constipation, diarrhea, tiredness, or head shaking are possible.

Description

•Antiemetic

•Available as tablets, oral disintegrating tablets, and liquids

Uses

This medication is not FDA-approved specifically for animals, but it is approved for use in humans. At the discretion of your veterinarian, this medication may be used in other species (extra-label), such as for:

•Treatment or prevention of nausea and vomiting in dogs, cats, and other species

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking

•Any conditions or diseases your animal has now or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use in patients:

•That are allergic to it

Use with caution in patients:

•With liver disease

•With a blocked gastrointestinal tract

•With heart rhythm problems

•With abnormal electrolyte levels

•With the MDR1 genetic mutation

•That are taking medications that can affect serotonin, such as antidepressants

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

How do I give this medication?

•Give with or without food.

•If you are using orally disintegrating tablets:

‐Make sure your hands are completely dry before handling the tablets.

‐Place the dose on your animal’s tongue. These tablets will dissolve in your animal’s mouth and be swallowed with their saliva.

•Measure liquids using an oral syringe, medicine cup, or dosing spoon. Do not use household measuring devices.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common – contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Constipation or diarrhea

•Drowsiness

•Head shaking

Severe – stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

•Severe lack of energy, fainting, or collapse. Although rare, these could be signs of heart rhythm abnormalities or low blood pressure.

How will I know it's working?

•Your animal should start feeling better in 1 to 2 hours.

Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s signs worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•This medication will stop working within 24 hours of the last dose.

•The effects may last longer if your animal has reduced kidney or liver function.

How long do I give it for?

This medication can be given for different lengths of time. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. You may need to refill the prescription.

Overdose

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule. If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature.

•Protect from light and moisture.

•Keep orally disintegrating tablets in the blister pack until ready to use. Wrap partial tablets tightly in the blister pack foil to help protect from moisture.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

Disposal

Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash it down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal in a plastic bag, and throw away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.