Why is this medication prescribed?  

Ondansetron injection is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy and surgery. Ondansetron is in a class of medications called 5-HT₃ receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of serotonin, a natural substance that may cause nausea and vomiting.

How should this medicine be used?  

Ondansetron comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected intravenously (into a vein) or into a muscle by a health care provider in a hospital or clinic. When ondansetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, it is usually given 30 minutes before the start of chemotherapy. Additional doses may be given 4 hours after the first dose and 8 hours after the first dose. When ondansetron is used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by surgery, it is usually given just before the surgery. Ondansetron is also sometimes given after surgery to patients who are experiencing nausea and vomiting and did not receive ondansetron before surgery.

Other uses for this medicine  

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?  

This medication will be stored in the hospital or clinic.

In case of emergency/overdose  

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• sudden loss of vision for a short time
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• fainting
• constipation
• irregular heartbeat

What other information should I know?  

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Brand names