Zofran® (
ondansetron hydrochloride) is a prescription drug approved for preventing nausea and vomiting due to various causes. Healthcare providers will often prescribe it for nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery.
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common
side effects of chemotherapy. This is likely due to many causes, one of which is the body's increased production of serotonin in the small intestine in response to chemotherapy. Zofran is often used in conjunction with other medications to prevent nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy.
Radiation-Induced Nausea and Vomiting
Zofran can be used along with other medications to help prevent nausea and vomiting due to radiation therapy. Zofran is better at preventing vomiting than preventing nausea. It is not licensed to treat nausea or vomiting once it starts; it is licensed to prevent these problems.
Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting
One of the causes of postoperative nausea and vomiting is the body's increased production of serotonin. Zofran works by blocking serotonin at certain receptors in the body. The medicine is given before surgery to help prevent nausea and vomiting from starting.
(Click Zofran Uses for more information about preventing vomiting and nausea with Zofran, to find out how this medication works, and to learn about possible "off-label" uses for this drug.)
