GENERIC NAME: DOLASETRON - ORAL (doh-LASS-eh-tron)
BRAND NAME(S): Anzemet
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Dolasetron is used to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting due to anti-cancer therapy or surgery. It works by blocking the hormone (serotonin) that causes vomiting.
HOW TO USE: This drug is taken by mouth, generally within one hour before certain cancer chemotherapy or within two hours before surgery. The maximum dose is 100mg.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache or dizziness may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: chest pain, chills, unusual change in amount of urine. Very unlikely but report promptly: rash, stomach pain, unusual bleeding or bruising. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: fainting, fast/irregular heartbeat. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies), heart problems, low mineral levels (electrolyte imbalances such as low potassium or magnesium). Since this drug may cause dizziness, caution is advised when performing hazardous tasks (e.g., driving). Limit alcohol intake, since it may aggravate drug side effects. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Nausea and Vomiting - Nausea and vomiting symptoms of many conditions including motion sickness, pregnancy, emotional stress, gallbladder disease, and more. Learn how to recognize the warning signs of nausea and vomiting on MedicineNet.com
- Antiemetics - Learn some of the causes of nausea and vomiting (pregnancy, motion sickness, overeating, postoperative) and read about treatments and their side effects.
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