Ondansetron
Brands: Zofran, Zuplenz
Ondansetron helps control nausea and vomiting in pets.
Used for
- nausea
- vomiting
- post-surgical vomiting
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- every 8-12 hours
- Duration
- as prescribed by a veterinarian
- Storage
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Small dogs
- 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Medium dogs
- 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Ondansetron
Side effects
Common
- constipation
- headache
Rare
- dizziness
Severe
- allergic reactions
Do not use when
- severe liver impairment
- hypersensitivity to ondansetron
Interacts with
- tramadol
- SSRIs
Warnings
- monitor for serotonin syndrome
- use cautiously in liver disease
Ondansetron questions
Can I give Ondansetron without a prescription?
No, always consult with your veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
What if I miss a dose?
Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next one.
Is Ondansetron safe for pregnant pets?
Caution is advised; consult your veterinarian.
Can Ondansetron be used long-term?
Long-term use should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
Full drug detail
Overview
Ondansetron is an antiemetic medication used in veterinary medicine to manage nausea and vomiting in pets. It is particularly beneficial for pets undergoing treatment that may cause gastrointestinal upset.
How It Works
Ondansetron works by blocking serotonin, a natural substance in the body that can cause nausea and vomiting. It specifically targets the 5-HT3 receptors in the brain and gut.
Uses & Indications
Ondansetron is primarily used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting in dogs and cats. It is often employed in cases of chemotherapy-induced nausea, post-surgical vomiting, and gastroenteritis.
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours.
- Medium Dogs: 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours.
- Large Dogs: 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours.
Cats
- Standard Dosage: 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg every 8-12 hours.
Administration
Ondansetron is typically administered orally in the form of tablets or liquid, but it is also available for injection.
Side Effects
Common
- Constipation
- Headache
Rare
- Dizziness
Severe
- Allergic reactions: Contact a veterinarian immediately if signs of an allergic reaction occur, such as swelling or difficulty breathing.
Precautions & Warnings
- Use with caution in pets with liver disease.
- Monitor pets for signs of serotonin syndrome if combined with other serotonergic drugs.
Drug Interactions
- Tramadol
- SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine)
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
FAQ
- Can I give Ondansetron without a prescription?
- No, always consult with your veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
- What if I miss a dose?
- Administer the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next one.
- Is Ondansetron safe for pregnant pets?
- Caution is advised; consult your veterinarian.
- Can Ondansetron be used long-term?
- Long-term use should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
- What should I do in case of an overdose?
- Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately.