Ondansetron (2mg/5ml)

Ondansetron (2mg/5ml) — Uses and Benefits

Ondansetron is mainly used to control nausea and vomiting.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Preventing and treating nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy
• Preventing and treating nausea and vomiting caused by radiotherapy
• Preventing and treating nausea and vomiting after surgery
• Managing vomiting due to certain stomach infections, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks a natural chemical called serotonin in the gut and brain that triggers vomiting
• Reduces the signal sent to the brain's vomiting centre
• Helps calm the stomach and prevents further episodes of vomiting

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for routine motion sickness
• Not a treatment for the underlying cause of vomiting, such as infection or food poisoning
• Not used for long-term or regular nausea without medical advice
• Not a painkiller or fever medicine

How to Use Ondansetron (2mg/5ml)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually before chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery, or when needed for nausea
• Can be taken with or without food
• Use the measuring cup or spoon provided with the liquid for accurate dosing; do not use a regular kitchen spoon
• Do not increase the dose or take it more often than advised
• Swallow the liquid directly; do not mix with other medicines unless told by your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• If it is for a scheduled use (before chemotherapy or surgery), follow your doctor's or hospital's instructions
• If you miss a dose meant for ongoing nausea, take it as soon as you remember, but skip if it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep the bottle tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Ondansetron (2mg/5ml) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Constipation
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dry mouth
• Mild fever
• Flushing or feeling warm
• Hiccups

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Irregular or fast heartbeat, chest pain
• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, and difficulty breathing
• Severe stomach pain or bloating
• Sudden vision changes or fainting
• Signs of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, high fever, rapid heart rate, stiff muscles, confusion

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ondansetron (2mg/5ml) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription medicine and should only be used under medical supervision in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to ondansetron or similar medicines
• Are taking apomorphine (a medicine for Parkinson's disease)
• Have a rare heart rhythm condition unless advised otherwise by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any heart problems, including irregular heartbeat
• Have liver disease
• Have low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a family history of heart rhythm problems

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect heart rhythm
• Certain antidepressants (risk of serotonin syndrome)
• Tramadol and other strong painkillers
• Medicines for Parkinson's disease such as apomorphine
• Antibiotics or antifungals that affect heart rhythm

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine daily for long-term nausea?

No, it is usually meant for short-term use around chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Is this medicine safe for children?

It can be used in children in specific doses decided by a doctor; do not give it without medical advice.

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

• Some people feel dizzy or tired after taking it, so avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.