Are you a healthcare professional? Join GoodRx for HCPs

Compare Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

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

Key takeaways

Ondansetron (Zofran) and dexamethasone (Decadron) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Ondansetron is an antiemetic used to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery or cancer treatments, while dexamethasone is a corticosteroid used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including allergies and autoimmune diseases. Ondansetron works by blocking serotonin receptors in the brain, whereas dexamethasone reduces inflammation by mimicking cortisol, a natural hormone. Ondansetron is available in multiple forms, including tablets, dissolvable tablets, and injections, and is typically taken multiple times a day. In contrast, dexamethasone is available as oral tablets, solutions, and injections, and its dosing can vary widely based on the condition being treated. Common side effects of ondansetron include headache and fatigue, while dexamethasone can cause trouble sleeping, weight gain, and higher blood sugar levels. Additionally, long-term use of dexamethasone can lead to more severe side effects like weakened bones and increased infection risk.

Ondansetron (Zofran)
Dexamethasone
Ondansetron (Zofran)
Dexamethasone
Summary of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone
Summary for Antiemetic
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.
Summary for Corticosteroid
Prescription only
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that's used to treat many inflammatory conditions, including allergic reactions and certain autoimmune conditions. If you've been taking dexamethasone for a long time, you're at higher risk for side effects like weight gain and weakened bones. Dexamethasone also has many drug interactions, so make sure to tell your provider and pharmacist what medications you're taking before starting this steroid. This medication is available as oral tablets and solutions, as well as an injection that's usually given in a healthcare setting.
Indications of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone
Indications for

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

•Prevention of nausea and vomiting after surgery

Indications for

•Allergies and allergic reactions

•Skin conditions

•Hormone-related conditions

•Eye conditions

•Stomach conditions

•Respiratory disorders

•Autoimmune and rheumatic conditions

•Multiple myeloma (Hemady brand only), blood cancers, and other blood-related conditions

•Certain eye conditions

•Nervous system and brain conditions

•Kidney diseases

•Shock
Pros and Cons of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone
Pros and Const for Antiemetic
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

•Needs to be taken multiple times daily

•Might cause headache

•Can interact with certain medications, like antidepressants and migraine medications

•Not the best option for people who are at risk for stomach or gut blockages (bowel problems)

Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
Pros

•Can treat many conditions

•Works quickly to relieve symptoms and problems caused by an overactive immune system, like swelling or rash

•Option to take it by mouth

•Available as a liquid for children or people who can't take tablets by mouth

Cons

•Can cause trouble sleeping and headaches

•Long-term use can cause problems with skin, bone, eye health and put you at a higher risk for infections

•Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking too suddenly

•Safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding isn't clear
Common Side Effects of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone
Common Side Effects for

•Headache (up to 24%)

•Fatigue (up to 13%)

•Constipation (up to 9%)

•Diarrhea (up to 6%)

Common Side Effects for

•Difficulty sleeping

•Higher blood sugar levels

•Headache

•Mood swings

•Nausea

•Stomach pain

•Feeling more hungry

•Weight gain
Warnings of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone
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 only

Common Side Effects for

•Lowered stress hormone levels

•Higher risk of infections

•High blood pressure and kidney-related problems

•Stomach and intestinal problems

•Weakened bones

•Eye problems
Prices with our coupons for Zofran vs. Dexamethasone
Learn more about Ondansetron
Learn more about Dexamethasone

Browse medications

View All

Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.

Compare Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

Key takeaways

Summary of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

Indications of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

Pros and Cons of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

Common Side Effects of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

Warnings of Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

Prices with our coupons for Zofran vs. Dexamethasone

Compare other Nausea and Eczema drugs

Browse medications

Good news for your inbox