Does Anyone Know Anything About Zofran (Ondansetron) During Pregnancy?

I took it with my first pregnancy and had no side effects what so ever. My son is now 3.5 years old and is very healthy. I was like you, and needed it desperately to get through the day. I suffered from all-day nausea. Good luck!

Hi I.,

Call me the Zofran Queen. I took it from week 7 all the way to delivery in month 10. I had no alternative but to take it because I was diagnosed with hyperemisis gravidarium which is an extreme form of nausea when you can't even keep water down, much less food. Before Zofran, I was vomiting as much as 12 times a day and at week 7 was so weak from lack of food and was so dehydrated I ended up in the ER. My hearing was failing and all I could hear was my own heartbeat in my ears. I had lost 7 lbs and had not gained any weight at all.

I tried ginger, and all other drug free alternatives first but none worked and I became so ill from the vomiting so was given Zofran which worked well. I still vomited a few times a month but was atleast able to start putting on weight and by the time of my son's birth, had gained over 50 lbs. My son weighed 8.1 lbs at birth and was 19 3/4" long so he came out healthy with no issues at all. I did see my doctor regularly and had informed everyone involved in my care that I was on Zofran. I can't recall the dosage but I believe it was prescribed for me to take twice a day. Toward the 7th month I reduced my dosage to once in the morning when I first woke up and that seemed to be fine.

You probably won't need to be on it as long as I was. It's widely used and again, as I said my son is now 16 months old and is very healthy and just gorgeous. Good luck!

I was cautious too, but had to take it to stop the nausea. I only had to take it for 2 weeks then the nausea went away. I am 6 1/2 months pregnant now and everything seems to be fine with the baby...I guess they wouldn't prescribe it if they thought otherwise...

homeopathy would be a much safer choice. no side effects, good for you, good for the baby, can even help in redicing the labor complications. i'm about to jump on my soap box. but seriousely, check it out before taking conventional meds.
Good Luck
V.

I took Zofran plus 3 other anti nausea meds during my pregnancy. NONE of them worked for me. I had severe vomiting and nausea through my 7th month of pregnancy. I lost 10lbs during the first trimester and then didn't gain any weight until my 7th month. I delivered at 35 weeks and 2 days. A healthy baby girl. The only issue she had was jaundice.

I usually try to go the "natural way" before I try any drugs. But it was so bad for me, plus taking care of my then 1.5 yo active son, I was ready to try anything and everything to see if it helped. I spent most nights up vomiting throughout the night, and spent most of the day curled up in a ball in my bed. The only time I left my room was to take care of my son on the days that DH had to go into the office and there was no one else that could babysit. The only thing I could hold down most of the time was Flintstones chewable vitamins, Coke, water, and plain boiled noodles with a little salt or soy sauce on it. Sometimes I could eat Olive Garden spaghetti and meatballs with the sauce on the side. Other than that, everything else came back up.

I say if you aren't able to function during the day, to go ahead and try some of the natural remedies first. Then if those don't help out, try the drugs. I first tried ginger (teas, candies, fresh, etc.) I tried something called Ginger Trips, a natural supplement pill. It helped slightly. I also tried those Sea Bands that are supposed to help with nausea and sea sickness. Did nothing for me. I tried to keep well hydrated and constantly ate throughout the day, that didn't help. Gingerale made me vomit more. Anything with too much sugar, too many spices, too spicey, or too saucey didn't agree with me. And anything too oiley wasn't good either (no dairy).

At this point, eat what you can tolerate and stays down. Make sure you get A LOT, and I mean A LOT of water. At least 6-8 8 ounce glasses a day. And definitely continue with your prenatal vitamins, unless they make you more nauseated. Like I mentioned before, I could only tolerate childrens chewables during my pregnancy. And if you can add in some probiotics (from yogurt or kefir or a supplement) and some Fatty Essential or 3-6-9 Oil that would be good. Both have tremendous benefits for you and your growing baby. The 3-6-9 Oil is known for promoting better brain development.

Congratulations on your pregnancy and I pray that you have a healthy pregnancy and safe and healthy delivery.

HI there. I am on some meds that I had concerns about taking while pregnant. You can call 800 532 3749 the california teratogen information service(ctis).. they are very thorough and will send u a written summary too. they have all the latest research. good luck

I was sick with my first and ended up in the hospital with my second because I was SO sick during my pregnancyt. I took Zofran with both kids and it REALLY helped. I started taking it at about 6 weeks along with both pregnancies. My OB and the hospital gave it to me. It's supposed to be safe for pregnant women. I wish you all the best and promise that every barfy moment is worth it (yes, even being in the hospital tossing my cookies was completely worth it!). If you have any other questions about my experience, feel free to write back. Again, best of luck and congrats to you!

I took it with my 2nd pregnancy any boy did it help! My daughter is now 2 1/2 and I had no complications! Good luck! J.

Hey There! My first pregnancy I was throwing up all day, through most of it. And now during my second pregnancy, my current dr. prescribed Zofran for me, and it's worked wonderfully, with a little self-awareness. I've lowered my
nausea consireably. Thank goodness! I suggest you try it,
if you really need it! and just stop if you think its affecting you in a bad way or not at all! :) : ) :)

Dear Elise,

If you have any concerns at all about taking meds during pregnancy, please try a local acupuncturist who specializes in women's health. It is ENTIRELY safe to have acupuncture during pregnancy (contrary to urban myths, and specifically, nausea during pregnancy has been proven in many scientific studies to be benefitted by acupuncture. Consequently, many health insurance companies cover it for this purpose.

Zofran is a class A drug. I think what ever it's class-it's in the super safest group. My son took Zofran at age 2-it dissolved. and I remember it being expensive. That could have changed since this was over 5 yrs ago. I'd be wary of anything during pregnancy-I had pneumonia during one of my pregnancies-and was given cough syrup and an antibiotic. Those were higher risk drugs.

Have you tried chewing on ginger root? or accupuncture? there are also bracelets....My morning sickness was never horrible-good luck.

You should question anything you take when pregnant, but Zofran is safe. I took it with both of my pregnancies when I had severe morning sickness (mine lasted all 9 months, both times). It worked wonders for me and my m.s. went away completely within minutes of taking it - it was a miracle cure for me (doesn't work for everyone)! My little sister just started taking it for her morning sickness too and I felt comfortable telling her to take it. I have never heard of any issues with it and I trust my dr. never would have prescribed it if there were. That said, i know people who still refused and I respect that too - you need to do what is right for you. My dr. did wait (the 1st time) until by nausea lasted more that 20 wks, but gave it to me sooner the second time (my son was only 5 mos. when I got pregnant again and I needed the medication to help me survive the day w sickness and an infant to care for). It became a quality of life issue and when I was finally on it, I was able to enjoy my pregnancies.

I was so sick I literally could not move and ended up in the hospital a few times for IVs for fluid. I took Zofran and praise God my son is healthy. He is 28 months now. I had four miscarries before I had him. I had hyperemisis gravidarium too.
Sue
I hope you feel better.

I also call it a wonder drug! It helped sooo much with the nausea and vomiting. But I did get bad headaches from it sometimes, but that was better than puking all day! Some people get constipated from it as a side effect but I never had that problem. It is safe for the baby though.

Zofran is my best friend. Get the tabs that dissolve on your tongue.

good luck!

www.thosecrazybeans.blogspot.com

I know how you feel but I urge you: don't take ANYTHING!!! Just don't trust it.
Many times in the years back women have taken medications that where said to be safe. Yet their children where born deformed or mentally handicapped. It is just not worth it. I was sick as a dog - 4 time!!!! I lost weight up to where I was 115 lbs. I was plump as a chicken 3 months after my baby was born again!

Just remember: This too shall pass!

It is only for 9 short months!! Or a lifetime of problems for you and your child....
You can do it! You can be strong!

-C.

Zofran is completely safe to take during pregnancy. Dehydration in preganancy (which can result if you have too much nausea/vomiting) can be extremely dangerous. In some cases, it can be fatal. Take the medicine and drink as much fluids as possible. It's not worth the risk otherwise.

If you still aren't sure, contact the good people at www.motherisk.org. They have an 800 number, and you can call them and they can talk to you in detail about zofran in pregnancy. They are known to be THE athorities on drugs (esp morning sickness drugs) in pregnancy. The # is 800-463-8477.

I was on IV zofran, oral zofran, zofran through a subcutaneous pump, and ODT zofran (along with a variety of other things) throughout my pregnancy with my daughter. I had hyperemesis gravidarum. The zofran literally saved my life. I was taking max allowable doses. My daughter was born just perfect. She's almost 2, and ahead developmentally for her age. She's just as bright and wonderful as a child can be. The zofran saved her life, too, with no ill effects.

Edited to add: Some people do in fact die from severe nausea. The poster that suggested otherwise is woefully uninformed. Severe nausea/vomiting can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. You start spilling keytones, and your body starts to consume itself. I personally know women who have lost their babies due to this and I know of women who have died. Their potassium levels dropped too low and their hearts just stopped. Yours is probably not anywhere close to this severe, but I wanted to just say for the record, that yes, you can die from throwing up. I was on my way down that road myself, and it's a horrifying way to go.

Side effect of constipation can be really unpleasant and can make nausea worse. Start taking a stool softener now.

Edited: Zofran and Odanestron are the same things. I strongly reccomend the ODT (oral desintigrating tablet) because then you don't risk throwing up that really expensive pill.

It's safe to use during pregnancy. I had to use it until about 14 weeks and I have a friend currently who is still on it for severe nausea, vomiting and she is now 20 weeks. No problems with mom or baby! Good Luck!!

Hi I.,

Congratulations on your pregnancy. I have been down a similar road: miscarriage(well, multiples in my case) followed by a completely healthy pregnancy during which I spent a LOT of time vomiting. My doctor (who mentioned that the nausea was a really good sign) prescribed something for me, too, but when I went to get it filled the pharmacist suggested that I try "Sea Bands" first. They are motion sickness pressure point wrist bands. Although they made me feel a little woozy, I *was* able to eat and keep the food down. For me, it was a worthwhile trade. I'm with you on not wanting to take meds during pregnancy.

Best wishes!

Talk to a few pharmacists. This much I know - it is the least harmful or any of that class of drug. They give it to infants. My daughter has taken it (for an illness) since she was 4 years old - so I had been nervous too, and investigated it, researched it, etc..........
I guess no one know 110% - but if it were me, I would seriously consider taking it. IF you do, ask for the zofran ODT (oral dissolving tablet) it works quickly. Find a pharmacist you trust. Have you tried ginger under your tongue? Cinnamon gum also worked wonders for me.
Best of luck to you
K.

Here's the actual study that was done concerning this drug.
http://www.obfocus.com/reference/Formulary/Drugs%20in%20P...
As for personal experience I used it my first pregnancy with my baby girl religiously for the first 5 months and then just as needed the rest of the pregnancy and she was a healthy newborn and is the healthiest little 14 month old. : )

Hi I.,
First off, CONGRATULATIONS!!!! The nausea absolutely sucks though, so anything you can find to ease it is wonderful. I really struggled taking Zofran with my first pregnancy. The nausea finally won as NONE of the home remedies people suggested helped and I was at a point that I couldn't function anymore. I ended up taking it with both pregnancies and have two amazing, bright, developmentally perfect children. I absolutely do not believe it had ANY negative effects on them.

Here are a few notes on the zofran itself. I found that it didn't help alleviate the nausea so much as it kept me from vomiting (which kept me out of the hospital). Also, I think it added to the constipation that is common in the first trimester so I had some cramping that could get pretty alarming.

The one thing that did help some with my second pregnancy was sucking on See's lollipops (especially chocolate) pretty much all day. The preggy pops did nothing for me but the See's definitely helped.

GOOOD LUCK!!! I wish you and your growing family all of the best in life! :)

Dear I.,

I had an awful time with morning (all day and into the night) sickness :( For my second pregnancy, I found the miracle of Zofran. While it didn't completely take away the yucky feelings, I was able to hold down water. Sadly, our baby was homesick for heaven and we lost her when I was 4 months pregnant. I got pregnant again about 8 months later and same thing with the morning sickness, Dr. prescribed ondansetron at my request and it worked like a charm. I took it every 12 hours from 7 weeks until 16 weeks. About 15 weeks, I started trying to wean... I was so paranoid to start throwing up again though! Aside from a little constipation (yikes!) there really isn't anything bad I can say. Baby Girl was born this February and is completely healthy and happy! Good luck with your pregnancy, I think that the best thing you can do it provide your body a little relief cuz baby is going to get what he needs weather you're at the top of your game or not.

Hi I., If you have any doubt or questions about a medication that your OB prescribed for you then you need another MD. You can do your own research,(like mamasource, not very scientific, but generic) and on line med search or read the pharmacy instructions (ask the pharmacist) or just not take it and suffer along.
No one died from nausea that I know of. it is miserable though...many responses tell the torture of morning sickness all day and all pregnancy, I didn't know. You are tough moms to have suffered through that!
good luck, and good for you for asking, but no OB is interested in the malpractice or hurting your child by writing a RX for something harmful. does that make sense? deb

I took zofran with both of my pregnancies with no problems. My kids are no 3 and 5.

Hi I.,
Congratulations on your pregnancy! :) I had to take Zofran during my second pregnancy because I was vomitting so much that I couldn't leave my bed and the bathroom. I had a 4 year old at the time and couldn't even take care of him. I did end up in the hospital a couple of times for IV fluids, so that's when they put me on the meds. I took one every morning for my full pregnancy. It's much better to take the Zofran if you have to because you aren't doing the baby any good if you are throwing up all of your fluids, food, and can't function. All-in-all, it would be better to avoid all drugs during your pregnancy, but sometimes you just can't avoid it. My daughter is almost 6 years old now, and a perfectly healthy, active, feisty little girl with no side effects from the drug. Best of luck to you, and I hope you start feeling better soon.
~W.

Hi there.

I took it during my second pregnancy. I was pregnant with twins and the nausea was unbelieveable. I worked with a few other women at the time who had taken it and all was fine with their babies.

It absolutely made me feel better...not sure what I would have done without it. In the interest of full disclosure though, I did lose my girls at 24 weeks when I developped severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. My doctors don't believe it had anything to do with my condition, but I'll always wonder if it was just one more thing that led to it.

Again, though, it helped me feel better and in ALL likelihood and no impact on what happened to me.

Good luck and feel better!
-M

I took it with both my kids. I called it the wonder drug - it made me feel so much better. I couldn't keep food down, so it really helped me. I took it for the whole 9 months with both my kids. As I was delivering my daughter I was taking one!! Both my kids were very healthy - it doesn't harm the fetus. Hope this helps.

I took Zofran with my daughter by mouth for 20 weeks and now this pregnancy, I have a Zofran pump and am STILL nauseated. I am a nurse and have done much research into this. I have not found where it at all harmful. Women get Zofran IV during pregnancy all of the time.

Hi,
I don't want to freighten you, but I was prescribed Ondansetron when I was 7 weeks and 3 days pregnant and at 11 weeks I found out that my baby had passed at 8 weeks (just 4-5 days after starting the drug). This was my 3rd pregnancy and my first miscarriage, whith 2 living, healthy children. I did some research online and it said it has only been tested on 75 women, 2 of which had still births, 5 misscarriages, and the rest normal pregnacies. My husband had told me he had a bad feeling about the drug (usually his feelings are correct) and I also had a bad feeling so when I read the fine print about it being used for chemotherapy patients I immediately stopped using it. I also read online that pregnant women should not take drugs used for acne or cancer treatments. One other interesting piece of info. I read after the fact was the once a fetal heart beat is detected in a scan there is only a 4-5% chance of miscarriage. In my case the heartbeat was detected strongly at week 6 through an ultrasound, therefore, I strongly believe this drug was the cause for my miscarriage. I would warn any pregnant woman to not take this drug. I was even more sick with my first two boys, but doctor didn't give me anything for the first and something different for the 2nd and they are both healthy living boys. I guess in hindsite I would have rather suffered the morning sickness than have to suffer the very recent loss of my 3rd and last child.