Dolasetron

Dolasetron blocks the actions of chemicals in the body that can trigger nausea and vomiting. Dolasetron oral (taken by mouth) is used to prevent nausea and vomiting that may be caused by medicine to treat cancer (chemotherapy).

Introduction #

Generic name: Dolasetron (oral)

Brand name: Anzemet

Dosage form: oral tablet (100 mg; 50 mg)

Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Drug class: 5HT3 receptor antagonists

Uses #

Treatment of nausea

Treatment of vomiting

Directions for use #

• Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

• Dolasetron is usually taken 1 hour before chemotherapy. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Side effects #

Dolasetron may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• Headache with chest pain and severe dizziness, fainting, fast or pounding heartbeats

• A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out

• Slow heart rate, weak pulse, slow breathing

• Swelling in your hands or feet

• Little or no urinating

• High levels of serotonin in the body–agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, fainting.

Common side effects of dolasetron may include:

• Mild headache

• Mild dizziness

• Drowsiness

• Pain.

What drugs will affect dolasetron? #

Dolasetron can cause a serious heart problem, especially if you use certain medicines at the same time, including antibiotics, antidepressants, heart rhythm medicine, antipsychotic medicines, and medicines to treat cancer, malaria, HIV or AIDS. Tell your doctor about all medicines you use, and those you start or stop using during your treatment with dolasetron.

Warnings #

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.