ZYTRON

This medicine contains the active ingredient Ondansetron which belongs to a group of medicines called antiemetics (5HT 3 – receptor antagonist). These medicines impede the effect caused by the excessive production of a chemical naturally present in our body called Serotonin. If the amount of Serotonin is too high it can cause you to feel or be sick (nausea and vomiting). Ondansetron is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of nausea and vomiting invoked by chemotherapy, radiotherapy and after a surgery.  

Is Ondansetron suitable for me?

Ondansetron is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• If you are allergic to Ondansetron or other ingredients of this medicine
• If you are using apomorphine for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• have problems with your heart or heart rhythm
• have liver or gut problems
• have problems with the levels of salts in your blood, such as potassium, sodium and magnesium
• have a blockage in your bowel
• are taking other serotonergic drugs

Ondansetron interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Ondansetron?

This medicine is available in form of a film-coated tablet.

You should take Ondansetron exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose will be prescribed according to your condition and needs.

• For the sickness caused by chemotherapy or radiotherapy, the usual dose for adults is 8 mg taken 1 or 2 hours before treatment. The maintenance dose is 8 mg taken twice a day for the next 5 days.
• For the sickness caused by a surgery, the usual dose for adults is 16 mg before the operation.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose. Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Ondansetron side effects?

Like all medicines Ondansetron can cause side effects, including:

Very common:

• Headache

Common:

• Feeling hot, flushing
• constipation
• changes to liver function test results

Uncommon:

• hiccups
• low blood pressure
• uneven heart beat
• dizziness
• chest pain
• fits
• unusual body movements or shaking

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.