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Zofran vs. Anzemet

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ondansetron (Zofran) and dolasetron (Anzemet) are both antiemetic medications used to prevent nausea and vomiting, especially from chemotherapy. Ondansetron (Zofran) is available in multiple forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, oral solution, and injection, making it versatile for different needs. In contrast, dolasetron (Anzemet) is only available as a tablet, which can be limiting if you have trouble swallowing or keeping medication down. Ondansetron (Zofran) is available as a lower-cost generic, while dolasetron (Anzemet) is only available as a brand-name medication, which can be more expensive. Both medications can cause side effects like headache and fatigue, but ondansetron (Zofran) has a broader range of common side effects, including constipation and diarrhea. Additionally, ondansetron (Zofran) can be used off-label during pregnancy, whereas there isn't enough information to confirm the safety of dolasetron (Anzemet) during pregnancy.

Ondansetron

(Zofran)

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Anzemet

(dolasetron)

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Summary for Zofran

Prescription only

Ondansetron (Zofran) is an antiemetic (or anti-nausea) medication. It's used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery or cancer treatments. It works by stopping a chemical called serotonin from binding to receptors in the brain that cause the feeling of nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron (Zofran) is taken by mouth, typically every 8 to 12 hours. It comes in different formulations, including orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) and oral solution. It can also be given as injection by a healthcare professional (HCP) in a hospital setting. Side effects of this medication include headache, tiredness, and constipation or diarrhea.

Indications for Zofran

  • Prevention of nausea and vomiting due to cancer medications (chemotherapy) or radiation therapy
  • Prevention of nausea and vomiting after surgery

Pros and Cons for Zofran

Pros

  • Can use for both adults and children
  • Available as a lower-cost generic
  • Available as a liquid, dissolvable tablet, and injection for people who have problems swallowing pills or are too nauseous to keep medication down
  • Possible option during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Cons

Common Side Effects for Zofran

  • Headache (up to 24%)
  • Fatigue (up to 13%)
  • Constipation (up to 9%)
  • Diarrhea (up to 6%)

Warnings for Zofran

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Risk of heart attack
  • Masking of gut blockage and stomach bloating
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - orally disintegrating tablets only

Summary for Anzemet

Prescription only

Anzemet (dolasetron) is a medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting due to cancer medications (chemotherapy). It's used for adults and children 2 years and older. This medication is taken by mouth within 1 hour before chemotherapy.

Indications for Anzemet

  • Prevention of nausea and vomiting due to cancer medications (chemotherapy)

Pros and Cons for Anzemet

Pros

  • Works well to prevent nausea and vomiting
  • Can use in children as young as 2 years old
  • Can use safely in people with liver or kidney problems

Cons

  • Available as a brand name only, which can be expensive
  • Not the best choice for people with heart rhythm problems
  • Can interact with certain medications, like antidepressants and migraine medications
  • No longer available as an injection for people who might have trouble swallowing or keeping things down

Common Side Effects for Anzemet

  • Headache (18-23%)
  • Fatigue (3-6%)

Warnings for Anzemet

  • Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Severe allergic reactions

Prices with our coupons for Zofran vs. Anzemet

Price Card Drug Icon
Ondansetron20 orally disintegrating tabs / 4mg
$10.99$115.67
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Price Card Drug Icon
Anzemet1 tablet / 50mg
$34.70$40.79
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