Ondansetron-induced dystonia: An uncommon case report

Ondansetron, a 5-hydroxytryptamine 3 receptor antagonist used as an antiemetic, is reported to have an excellent safety record. Dizziness and headache are common side effects associated with ondansetron. Dystonia, which is a serious and limiting movement disorder, is a rare adverse drug reaction (ADR) reported with ondansetron. Ondansetron-induced dystonia cases make up < 1% of all ADRs, making it a rare yet important ADR about which the doctors must be aware. This spontaneous case report was reported from the pediatrics department at Christian Medical College (CMC) and Hospital, Ludhiana. The ADR Monitoring Center at CMC, under the aegis of Pharmacovigilance Programme of India, was informed, and the case was entered into VigiFlow and sent to Uppsala Monitoring Centre. Dystonia is a very debilitating experience for the patient as it limits a patient’s day-to-day activities and diminishes their quality of life. Therefore, it is imperative to report such cases as they have a huge physical, mental, and emotional toll on the health of the patient.