Outcomes of ondansetron use in children with gastroenteritis in the emergency department: a literature review

Abstract

In the UK, the use of antiemetics in children with gastroenteritis is not standardised. The antiemetic ondansetron is often administered, in clinical practice, to children presenting with gastroenteritis. However, it is not listed in the British National Formulary for Children for use in gastroenteritis and it is not included in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence algorithm for the management of gastroenteritis in children under 5 years.

This article discusses the findings of a literature review of the outcomes of ondansetron use in children with gastroenteritis in the emergency department. The article concludes that ondansetron appears to be a beneficial and useful adjunct to the treatment of gastroenteritis in children.