Zofran Injection Description

A Zofran Injection may be recommended as a preventive measure when you start chemotherapy so you do not become nauseous or vomit. Cancer drugs are given to kill the fast growing cancer cells in your body, but because healthy cells also grow rapidly, the drugs kill those as well. This is the reason for side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Many cancer patients can handle the other effects of the chemotherapy, but dread being sick and throwing up.

Block the Brain Chemical Responsible for Signaling Your Vomit Center

Zofran Injection is a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor antagonist, or more simply, a 5-HT3 RA. It is usually administered intravenously slowly about 30 minutes before chemotherapy begins. As it reaches your bloodstream, it is carried to your brain and blocks the action of a neurotransmitter called serotonin, which is responsible for sending the vomit signals. As long as the signals to your vomit center are blocked, you will not become nauseous and throw up due to the chemo drugs.

Patients as young as 6 months may be administered a Zofran Injection or generic Ondansetron to help prevent emetic symptoms. Vomiting at such a young age may be considered a risk due to the possibility of the child aspirating. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Zofran Injection

PONV stands for post-operative nausea and vomiting, another reason for a Zofran Injection. Some patients are administered a Zofran Injection pre-operatively if they are to undergo any surgery that involves the abdomen, back, throat, or any part of the body that is affected by the force of vomiting. Some patients have a reaction to sedation and can become nauseous and vomit during recovery which can interfere with the surgery that was just performed unless a Zofran Injection has been given.

Before You Are Given a Zofran Injection

Ask your doctor if a Zofran Injection is safe if given while you are pregnant or breast feeding. Discuss other medical conditions and allergies with your doctor and list any Rx drugs you currently take or use, including OTC products, herbal remedies, and vitamin or dietary supplements. Your doctor can determine if Zofran Injection is right for your situation.

Zofran Injection Precautions

Inform medical staff if you have ever experienced a hypersensitivity to this type of medication before or if you have any heart conditions that may require closer monitoring after the administration of a Zofran Injection. Zofran Injection can be administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or slowly as an infusion depending on your doctor’s preference and why it has been recommended.

Possible Side Effects of Zofran Injection

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Constipation
• Injection site reaction

Drugs Similar to Zofran Injection

• Sancuso
• Aloxi Injection
• Kytril Injection