Kay asked
If I took Zofran 8mg this morning at 8 am can I take another now?
Answer
Ondansetron (Zofran) is a prescription medication that can be used for prevention or treatment of nausea and vomiting. Zofran is often prescribed every 8 hours as needed for a maximum of 24 mg per day.
Information About Zofran Dosing And Use
Zofran takes about 75 minutes to reach peak effect via the oral route and has a half-life of about 3-6 hours. Spreading out the dose by at least 8 hours is generally recommended. The orally disintegrating tablet may work faster and is administered by allowing the tablet to dissolve on the tongue. Zofran is also available in an IV formulation.
Zofran is effective in treating many types of nausea and vomiting including:
- Chemotherapy induced
- Post-operative
- Radiation-induced
- Pregnancy induced (off-label)
- Gastroenteritis (off-label)
Zofran may cause headache, drowsiness, diarrhea, and constipation. It has been associated with QT prolongation and arrhythmias in those with heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, and those taking other medications that prolong QT timing. Serotonin syndrome has also been reported when other medications are used that effect serotonin levels.
Alternatives For Indigestion Related Nausea
Acid reflux, commonly known as heartburn, can cause nausea and general discomfort. Instead of using anti-nausea medications, it may help to treat the source of the nausea by using antacids. Commonly used antacids include:
- Calcium carbonate (Tums)
- H2-Receptor Blockers like ranitidine (Zantac) and famotidine (Pepcid)
- Proton
Pump Inhibitors like omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole
(Prevacid) and pantoprazole (Protonix)
Additionally, avoiding foods that may cause heartburn may be effective in preventing the nausea. These may include:
- Fried foods
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Alcohol
- Peppermint
- Tomatoes.
