What is Zofran, and what is it used for?
Zofran, also known as ondansetron, is a serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonist [1]. It is a prescription drug and prevents nausea and vomiting [2].
The primary purpose of Zofran development was the prevention of vomiting after chemotherapy. Today, it is still used in oncology [2].
Zofran is also used today to prevent vomiting and nausea during pregnancy [2].
Additionally, Zofran can be used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgeries, like a cesarean delivery [3].
Why does Zofran cause constipation?
Zofran belongs to the 5HT3 receptor antagonists. This class of drugs influences the levels of serotonin in the intestine. In the gut, serotonin regulates gastrointestinal motility. Changes in the serotonin in the intestine after taking Zofran can lead to constipation.
Zofran inhibits the 5H3T serotonin receptor in the enteric neurons in the intestine. Blockage of this receptor leads to a slower passing of the stool and can lead to constipation [4, 5].
Using Zofran prolongs the time the stool needs to go through the colon from around 28 h to 39 h [5].
When taking Zofran, the risk of constipation increases more than three times compared to people who do not take it [6].
How to manage constipation from Zofran?
Several strategies exist to manage constipation from Zofran.
You can use over-the-counter laxatives or stool softeners to manage an acute onset of constipation. These drugs will provide fast relief [7].
An important step is to increase the fiber consumption. It will help maintain bowel movement. Up to 50 grams of fiber are recommended daily [7].
You can eat whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to increase your fiber intake. Also, fiber supplements exist, like Benefiber [7].
To manage constipation from Zofran, you need to stay hydrated. Drinking at least eight glasses of water daily can soften the stool, preventing constipation. You can drink warm beverages to ease the pain from constipation [7].
Another key to managing constipation is regular physical activity. Exercise benefits the bowel movement and can help with constipation [8].
Regular toilet-going habits are also helpful in preventing constipation [8].
Additionally, stress management can prevent the worsening of constipation. To manage stress, you can practice yoga or meditation [8].
Should I see a doctor when I have constipation after Zofran?
Normally, you can treat constipation with in-house methods or over-the-counter medication. However, in specific cases, constipation after Zofran will require medical attention.
You need to monitor your constipation to know when to see a doctor. Remember that constipation can turn into a medical emergency.
When you have constipation for a couple of days, you should make an appointment with your doctor [8].
Constipation from Zofran can also become severe. When constipation is accompanied by sharp pain, rectal bleeding, or vomiting, seek medical attention immediately [8].
When not to take Zofran?
You should not take Zofran when the nausea and vomiting are caused by electrolyte imbalance [2].
Also, you must not take Zofran when you take any medication that influences the serotonin levels. An example of medications that you must not take with Zofran is antidepressants. Combining a serotonin-modulating drug with Zofran can potentially lead to a dangerous condition named serotonin syndrome.
What side effects does Zofran have?
Zofran, like all medications, can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
However, Zofran can also lead to serious side effects. Among them are:
- blurred vision,
- rashes, hives, and itching,
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, and extremities [1, 9].
Other serious side effects can include:
- hoarseness,
- difficulty breathing and swallowing,
- chest pain,
- dizziness,
- light-headedness,
- fainting,
- irregular fast or slow heartbeat,
- fever,
- excessive sweating,
- nausea and vomiting,
- diarrhea [1, 9].
Additionally, Zofran can lead to less common neurological side effects like: