Side Effects of ondansetron: A Synthesis of Findings from 14 Studies
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This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.
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Main Research Findings
Ondansetron is a drug commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery. 2 , 3 . However, ondansetron can cause a variety of side effects, and in some cases, it can cause serious reactions such as anaphylactic shock. 4 . While it is expected to reduce nausea and vomiting, some studies have reported side effects such as diarrhea. 7 . Ondansetron is also often used in combination with dexamethasone to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy in children, but dexamethasone is sometimes prohibited in pediatric chemotherapy protocols. 11 . Additionally, ondansetron has been found to be associated with a higher risk of side effects such as catheter occlusion and swelling around the hypodermoclysis site when administered subcutaneously in palliative care for the elderly. 6 . Ondansetron can prolong the QT interval, so electrocardiographic monitoring may be necessary. 12 . Ondansetron has also been reported to cause dystonia, a neurological side effect. 3 . Ondansetron has also been reported to cause ileus, a gastrointestinal side effect. 10 .
Reasons for Side Effects
Ondansetron is a drug that inhibits the action of serotonin. Serotonin plays a role in suppressing nausea, but it is also involved in gastrointestinal motility and neurotransmission. Therefore, ondansetron may cause side effects such as diarrhea and neurological side effects, along with its effect of suppressing nausea. 2 , 7 , 3 . Ondansetron can also prolong the QT interval on electrocardiograms. This is because ondansetron affects the electrical activity of the heart. 12 .
Common Side Effects
Nausea
Ondansetron is used to suppress nausea, but some patients may experience worsening nausea. 7 .
Diarrhea
Ondansetron can cause diarrhea. This is because ondansetron promotes gastrointestinal motility. 7 .
Headache
Ondansetron can cause headaches. 2 .
Dizziness
Ondansetron can cause dizziness. 2 .
Constipation
Ondansetron can cause constipation. 2 .
Anaphylactic Shock
Ondansetron can cause anaphylactic shock. This is an allergic reaction to ondansetron. 4 .
Dystonia
Ondansetron can cause dystonia. This is an abnormal contraction of muscles. 3 .
Ileus
Ondansetron can cause ileus. This is a condition in which the movement of the intestines stops. 10 .
QT Interval Prolongation
Ondansetron can prolong the QT interval on electrocardiograms. This is because ondansetron affects the electrical activity of the heart. 12 .
Countermeasures for Side Effects
Nausea
If you experience severe nausea, consult a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe medication to relieve your nausea. 7 .
Diarrhea
If you experience severe diarrhea, consult a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe antidiarrheal medication. 7 .
Headache
If you experience severe headaches, consult a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication. 2 .
Dizziness
If you experience dizziness, move to a safe place. Rest and wait for the symptoms to improve before consulting a doctor. 2 .
Constipation
If you experience severe constipation, consult a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe laxatives. 2 .
Anaphylactic Shock
If you experience anaphylactic shock, consult a doctor immediately. Anaphylactic shock is a life-threatening emergency. 4 .
Dystonia
If you experience dystonia, consult a doctor immediately. Dystonia is an abnormal contraction of muscles. 3 .
Ileus
If you experience ileus, consult a doctor immediately. Ileus is a condition in which the movement of the intestines stops. 10 .
QT Interval Prolongation
If QT interval prolongation is confirmed, consult a doctor. Your doctor may discontinue ondansetron or switch to a different medication if necessary. 12 .
Comparison between Studies
Commonalities of Studies
Many studies have shown that ondansetron is effective in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting. 2 , 1 , , 3 .
Differences between Studies
The frequency and severity of side effects from ondansetron vary depending on the study. 7 , 4 . The frequency and severity of side effects may also vary depending on the method and dosage of ondansetron administration. 6 .
Points to Note Regarding Application to Real Life
While ondansetron is effective in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting, it can cause various side effects. If you are using ondansetron, it is important to consult a doctor and understand the risks and benefits of side effects before use. 2 , 7 , 4 , 3 .
Limitations of Current Research
Research on the side effects of ondansetron is still not sufficient. In particular, more research is needed on the long-term effects of side effects attributed to ondansetron. 11 , 10 .
Future Research Directions Needed
Further research on the side effects of ondansetron is needed. In particular, research is needed on the long-term effects of side effects, risk factors for side effects, prevention of side effects, and treatment of side effects. 14 , 13 , 9 .
Conclusion
Ondansetron is effective in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting, but it can cause a variety of side effects. If you are using ondansetron, it is important to consult a doctor and understand the risks and benefits of side effects before use. 2 , 7 , 4 , 3 .
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Article Type
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