Key takeaways
Ondansetron (Zofran) and palonosetron (Aloxi) are both antiemetic medications used to prevent nausea and vomiting, but they have some key differences. Ondansetron is available in multiple forms, including oral tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, oral liquid, and injections, while palonosetron is only available as an IV injection. Ondansetron needs to be taken multiple times daily, whereas palonosetron is a long-lasting medication given as a single dose before chemotherapy or surgery. Palonosetron might work better and have fewer side effects than ondansetron, but it must be administered by a healthcare professional. Common side effects of ondansetron include headache, fatigue, and constipation, while palonosetron commonly causes headache and constipation. Both medications can cause serious allergic reactions and serotonin syndrome, especially when taken with other medications that raise serotonin levels.
