How does it work?

Tropisetron is a medicine known as a 5-HT3 receptor blocker. Serotonin (5-HT) is a chemical produced by the nervous system. Specific receptors in the body bind with serotonin with different results. 5-HT3 receptors are present in the brain and gut. Stimulation of these receptors by serotonin contributes to the sensation of nausea and the reflex action of vomiting. Tropisetron acts directly on 5-HT3 receptors in the gut to block serotonin thereby preventing nausea and vomiting. It is also thought to block 5-HT3 receptors in the brain, further preventing nausea and vomiting. Tropisetron is highly effective in adults with post-surgical nausea and vomiting and in children with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

What is it used for?

Prevention of cancer chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in children

Prevention of post-surgical nausea and vomiting in adults who are at high risk of post-surgical nausea and vomiting

Treatment of post-surgical nausea and vomiting in adults

Use with caution in

Disturbed heart rhythm or nerve conduction within the heart

People taking and anti-arrhythmia or beta-blocking medicines

Not to be used in

Pregnancy

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The manufacturer states not to use this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding as there is insufficient safety information available. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Take this medication an hour before food or on an empty stomach.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Headache

Fatigue

Disturbances of the gut such as diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain

Dizziness

Allergy to active ingredients (hypersensitivity) such as facial flushing, skin rash, itch, narrowing of airways (bronchospasm) or swelling of lips, tongue or throat (angioedema)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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