Ondansetron 8mg Tablets

How to take Ondansetron 8mg tablets

• The recommended dose for oral administration is 8 mg to be taken twice daily.

Swallow the tablet whole: Take the tablet with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet before swallowing, as this may affect the way the medication is absorbed by your body.

Ondansetron can be taken with or without food.

Ondansetron 8mg tablets ingredients

The active ingredient contained in ondansetron 8mg tablets is: Ondansetron (as the hydrochloride dihydrate)

Ondansetron 3mg buccal tablets also contain the following inactive ingredients:

Tablet core: Lactose monohydrate, Microcrystalline cellulose, Maize starch, Magnesium stearate.

Tablet coat: Hypromellose, Titanium dioxide E171, Macrogol.

Ondansetron 8mg tablets side effects

Most people will not experience side effects when they take Ondansetron 8mg tablets, however, if you do they can include

• Fatigue: Feeling tired or lethargic can also occur frequently with the use of ondansetron
• Constipation: Some individuals may experience difficulty passing stools or infrequent bowel movements while taking ondansetron
• Headache: This is a common side effect reported by people taking ondansetron

These side effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any side effect becomes bothersome or persists, it's important to consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

If you are concerned about these effects, or if the product affects you in any other way, stop using it and talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ondansetron 8mg tablets warnings

Ondansetron, like many medications, has certain warnings associated with its use. Here are some important warnings and precautions regarding Ondansetron:

1. Serotonin Syndrome: Ondansetron can increase serotonin levels in the body, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. This risk is higher when Ondansetron is used in combination with other medications that also increase serotonin levels, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include agitation, hallucinations, coma, fast heart rate, changes in blood pressure, fever, excessive sweating, shivering or shaking, blurred vision, muscle spasm or stiffness, tremor, incoordination, stomach cramp, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
2. QT Prolongation: Ondansetron has been associated with a rare but potentially serious side effect called QT prolongation, which can lead to an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) called torsades de pointes. This risk may be higher in individuals with certain medical conditions, such as electrolyte abnormalities, heart rhythm disorders, or those taking other medications that also prolong the QT interval. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have before starting Ondansetron.
3. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some people may experience allergic or hypersensitivity reactions to Ondansetron, which can manifest as rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema), difficulty breathing, or other symptoms. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of a severe allergic reaction.
4. Use in Patients with Liver Disease: Ondansetron is primarily metabolized by the liver, so caution is advised when prescribing this medication to individuals with severe liver impairment. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in these patients to avoid potential accumulation of the drug.
   

It's important to discuss any concerns or questions you have about Ondansetron with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual risk factors.

Ondansetron 8mg tablets and other medicines

• Serotonergic medications: Ondansetron can increase serotonin levels in the brain. Combining it with other serotonergic medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and certain migraine medications can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, fever, excessive sweating, shivering, and diarrhoea.
• Antiarrhythmic medications: Ondansetron may increase the risk of arrhythmias when used with antiarrhythmic medications such as amiodarone, procainamide, sotalol, and others.
• Medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes: Ondansetron is primarily metabolized by the liver enzyme cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). Drugs that inhibit or induce CYP3A4 can affect the metabolism of Ondansetron, potentially altering its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. Examples of such medications include ketoconazole, rifampicin, and certain antiepileptic drugs.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Ondansetron or any new medication. They can evaluate potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly to ensure your safety and optimise the effectiveness of your medications.

Please read all packaging and the Patient Information Leaflet before taking any new medicine and inform your doctor of medicines you are taking or intend to take