Zofran (ondansetron) is prescribed for kids when they have severe vomiting and diarrhea.
The medication is most often used to treat acutegastroenteritis(stomach flu).
It’s also prescribed to prevent nausea and vomiting in those undergoingcancer chemotherapyorradiation therapy.
Verywell / Nusha Ashjaee
While Zofran doesnt treat stomach flu, its powerful ability to stop vomiting and diarrhea can preventdehydration.
Dehydration develops quickly in babies and young children, leading to serious complications.
Even so, Zofran is often prescribed off-label due to its potent antiemetic (anti-nausea) effects.
This includes treating severe vomiting in children with gastroenteritis.
ORT involves drinking water with modest amounts of sugar and salts to replenish lost body fluids.
Studies have shown that Zofran can help children keep oral fluids down rather than vomiting them up.
However, ER physicians may prescribe Zofran to take at home.
Serotonin Syndrome
Zofran boosts levels of serotonin (a neurotransmitter).
Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include:
In severe cases, serotonin syndrome can be life-threatening.
Never give a double dose, no matter how much time has passed since the previous one.
If your child misses two doses, call a healthcare provider for the next steps.
How Long Does It Take for Zofran to Work?
Zofran generally reaches its peak effectiveness within one to two hours.
To prevent nausea from radiation treatment, take Zofran one to two hours before treatment.
To prevent nausea after surgery, take Zofran one hour before the surgical procedure.
Alternatives
Zofran is not the only option for treating severe vomiting.
Other options may be recommended well before Zofran is even considered.
These include:
Antivert and Dramamine are available over the counter and by prescription.
Reglan is available by prescription only.
Speak with your child’s pediatrician before using any medication to treat your child’s vomiting or diarrhea.
It may also be used to treat nausea and vomiting related to cancer treatment.
Zofran typically starts to work within one to two hours after taking it.
Common but short-term side effects include dizziness, fatigue, and headache.
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