Compare Zofran vs. Compro
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Ondansetron (Zofran) and prochlorperazine (Compro) are both medications used to treat nausea and vomiting, but they have some key differences. Ondansetron (Zofran) is an antiemetic that works by blocking serotonin in the brain and is available in various forms, including tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, liquid, and injections. It is often used after surgery or cancer treatments and can be taken by both adults and children. On the other hand, prochlorperazine (Compro) is a phenothiazine that blocks dopamine and is only available as a rectal suppository. It is typically used for severe nausea and vomiting and is not recommended for children. Prochlorperazine (Compro) can cause serious side effects like extreme sleepiness and uncontrolled muscle movements, making it less favorable as a first-choice treatment. While both medications are available as generics, ondansetron (Zofran) offers more flexibility in administration and is generally considered safer, especially for long-term use.
- Ondansetron (Zofran)Prochlorperazine (Compro)
- Ondansetron (Zofran)Prochlorperazine (Compro)
Summary of Zofran vs. Compro
Summary for AntiemeticPrescription onlyOndansetron (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.
Summary for PhenothiazinePrescription onlyProchlorperazine (Compro) rectal suppository is a typical antipsychotic. It's FDA-approved to treat severe nausea and vomiting in adults. But prochlorperazine (Compro) isn't a first-choice antiemetic because it can cause serious side effects, such as extreme sleepiness and uncontrolled muscle movements. While prochlorperazine (Compro) is a good option for people who can't take medications by mouth, some people might find it unpleasant or difficult to use because it needs to be inserted into the rectum, typically twice daily. Prochlorperazine (Compro) comes as a brand-name and generic medication.
Indications of Zofran vs. Compro
Indications for•Prevention of nausea and vomiting after surgeryIndications for•Severe nausea and vomitingPros and Cons of Zofran vs. Compro
Pros and Const for AntiemeticPros•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 downCons•Needs to be taken multiple times daily•Might cause headache•Not the best option for people who are at risk for stomach or gut blockages (bowel problems)Pros and Const for PhenothiazinePros•Good option for people who have a hard time swallowing pills•Available as a generic medication•More convenient storage compared to some other suppositories because it doesn't need to be refrigeratedCons•Might be hard for some people to insert the suppository•Not recommended for use in children•Might cause rare but permanent side effects, such as uncontrolled muscle movementsCommon Side Effects of Zofran vs. Compro
Common Side Effects for•Headache (up to 24%)•Fatigue (up to 13%)•Constipation (up to 9%)•Diarrhea (up to 6%)Common Side Effects for•Drowsiness•Dizziness•Absent menstrual periods•Blurry vision•Low blood pressureWarnings of Zofran vs. Compro
Common Side Effects for•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 onlyCommon Side Effects for•Higher risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis•Difficulty controlling muscle movements (tardive dyskinesia)•Other conditions with uncontrolled muscle movements (dystonia, Parkinsonian symptoms, and restlessness)•Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS)•Cover up more serious health problems•Higher risk of infections•Higher risk of falls•Liver problems•Seizures•High prolactin levels•Difficulty maintaining normal body temperaturePrices with our coupons for Zofran vs. Compro
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