Warnings and Precautions With Ondansetron

Before taking ondansetron, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any warnings and precautions with ondansetron, such as drug interactions and allergic reactions. You should also tell your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking and any health conditions you may have, including liver problems, arrhythmia, or phenylketonuria.

Ondansetron: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking
 ondansetron hydrochloride (Zofran®) if you have:
 
  • Liver problems, including cirrhosis
  • An arrhythmia (an irregular heart rhythm), especially long QT syndrome
  • An electrolyte imbalance
  • Heart disease 
  • Phenylketonuria
  • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Zofran During Pregnancy)
  • Are breastfeeding
  • Have severe or constant nausea or vomiting that is not helped by ondansetron. Also, talk with your healthcare provider if you are vomiting blood.
  • Have severe vomiting and diarrhea. This combination of problems can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
     
It's important to also tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
Warnings and Precautions With Ondansetron Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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