Dolasetron mesylate
Trade Name:
Anzamet
Type of Drug:
Dolasetron mesylate belongs to a general class of drugs called serotonin antagonists. It is an antinausea medicine.
How Drug Works:
Dolasetron mesylate blocks the serotonin pathway by which chemotherapy stimulates the vomiting center in the brain.
How Drug Is Given:
Dolasetron mesylate is given as a tablet by mouth or as an injection into the vein over 1 to 15 minutes. It is given before chemotherapy or surgery. The dose can be a standard dose or based on your weight.
How Should I Take This Drug?
Take this drug exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or nurse to explain them to you.
Read the following information. If you do not understand it or if any of it causes you special concern, check with your doctor.
Before taking this drug, tell your doctor if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs, including vitamins and herbals.
Should I avoid any other medicines, foods, alcohol, and/or activities?
Your prescription and nonprescription medicines may interact with other drugs, causing harm. Certain foods or alcohol can also interact with drug products. Never begin taking a new medicine"prescription or nonprescription"without asking your doctor or nurse if it will interact with alcohol, food, or other medicines. Some drug products can cause drowsiness and affect activities such as driving.
Precautions:
Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Tell all the doctors, dentists, and pharmacists you visit that you are taking this drug.
  • Most of the following side effects probably will not occur.
  • Your doctor or nurse will want to discuss specific care instructions with you.
  • They can help you understand these side effects and help you deal with them.
Side Effects:
Less Common Side Effects
  • Headache
Rare Side Effects
  • Fever
  • Tiredness (fatigue)
  • Bone pain
  • Muscle aches
  • Constipation
  • Heartburn
  • Loss of appetite
  • Inflammation of the pancreas
  • Changes in electrical activity of heart
  • Flushing
  • Vivid dreams
  • Sleep problems
  • Confusion
  • Anxiety
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Swelling in the face
  • Itching
Other side effects not listed above can also occur in some patients. Tell your doctor or nurse if you develop any problems.
FDA Approval: Yes