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What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking ondansetron (Zofran, Zofran ODT, Zuplenz)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ondansetron, to similar medicines such as dolasetron (Anzemet), granisetron (Kytril), or palonosetron (Aloxi). Do not take ondansetron if you are also using apomorphine (Apokyn).

To make sure you can safely take ondansetron, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• liver disease;
• heart disease, congestive heart failure, a heart rhythm disorder;
• an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood); or
• a personal or family history of Long QT syndrome.

FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether ondansetron passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

ondansetron should not be given to a child younger than 4 years old.

Ondansetron orally disintegrating tablets may contain phenylalanine. Tell your doctor if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

How should I take ondansetron (Zofran, Zofran ODT, Zuplenz)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Ondansetron can be taken with or without food.

Take the ondansetron regular tablet with a full glass of water.

To take ondansetron orally disintegrating tablet (Zofran ODT):

• Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take the medicine. Open the package and peel back the foil from the tablet blister. Do not push a tablet through the foil or you may damage the tablet.
• Using dry hands, remove the tablet and place it in your mouth. It will begin to dissolve right away.
• Do not swallow the tablet whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
• Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves. If desired, you may drink liquid to help swallow the dissolved tablet.

To use ondansetron oral soluble film (strip) (Zuplenz):

• Keep the strip in the foil pouch until you are ready to use the medicine.
• Using dry hands, remove the strip and place it on your tongue. It will begin to dissolve right away.
• Do not swallow the strip whole. Allow it to dissolve in your mouth without chewing.
• Swallow several times after the strip dissolves. If desired, you may drink liquid to help swallow the dissolved strip.
• Wash your hands after using Zuplenz.

Measure the liquid form of ondansetron with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Your heart function may need to be tested with an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) on a regular basis. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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