Ondansetron is one of the most effective anti-sickness medicines, used mainly around chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. It works well and blocks the gut as much as the nausea, so constipation is close to inevitable.
Preventing and treating nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. It is also used off-label in some other situations, including severe pregnancy sickness under specialist advice.
It is less effective for motion sickness or vertigo, where other medicines suit better.
Take it as prescribed, often before treatment and then regularly for a set period rather than only when you feel sick — preventing nausea works far better than chasing it.
Orodispersible tablets dissolve on the tongue without water, useful if swallowing is difficult or you are already vomiting.
Constipation is very common and worth pre-empting: fluid, fibre and, if needed, an osmotic laxative such as macrogol. Ask us before you are struggling rather than after.
Also common: headache, flushing and tiredness.
Discuss use in early pregnancy with a specialist — there is a small possible increase in cleft lip and palate, weighed against the risks of severe, untreated vomiting.
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