Name of Drug:

Generic: Trade Name:

Ondansetron Zofran

Classification:
Pharmacologic Therapeutic: FDA category
Antiemetic Analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, Pregnancy
Nonopiod analgesic Category B
Mechanism of Action/Uses:
Used prior to surgery; Used for chemo pts
Blocks specific receptor sites (5-HT3), which are associated with nausea and vomiting in the
Chemoreceptor trigger zone, centrally, and at specific sites peripherally.
Correct Dosage Range and Route:
Adult Dosage:
PO, IV, IM 4-32 mg

Common Side Effects:

Dizziness, Constipation (sedating, but not as sedating as phenergan)

Contraindications:
Contains Aspartame—do not use in pts w/ phenylketonuria (rare condition in which a baby is born
without the ability to properly break down an amino acid called phenylalanine)

Nursing Process:
• More expensive than phenergan, but has less sedating effect
• Often used for N/V in chemo pts
• Crosses placenta, may enter breast milk
Pre-administration Assessment
Ask how much have they been vomiting?
Interventions/Patient Teaching
Be sure the timing of the drug corresponds with chemo/radiation tx
Evaluation
Monitor I&O, liver enzymes