Ondansetron

Question 1

What drug classification is Ondansetron?

Answer 1

Anti-emetic

Question 2

What is the action of Ondansetron in the body?

Answer 2

Potent anti-emetic and anti-nauseant, acting on the vagal nerve which has an effect on the vomiting centre in the brain, also blocking serotonin receptors

Question 3

What schedule is Ondansetron classified under?

Answer 3

Schedule 4 (Restricted Drug)

Question 4

What are the side effects of Ondansetron? (4)

Answer 4

• Headaches
• Dysrhythmias
• Constipation
• Flushing

Question 5

What are the indications for administering Ondansetron? (1)

Answer 5

Nausea and/or vomiting

Question 6

What are the contraindications for administering Ondansetron? (4)

Answer 6

• Known severe allergic reaction
• Long QT syndrome
• Patients < 2 years old
• Current apomorphine therapy (Parkinson’s disease medication)

Question 7

What are the precautions to be considered when administering Ondansetron? (3)

Answer 7

• Hepatic impairment
• GIT obstruction
• Current cardiac arrhythmias

Question 8

What is the onset time for Ondansetron when administered via IV?

Answer 8

5 minutes

Question 9

How can Ondansetron be administered?

Answer 9

Per oral, IM or IM