Medications for Nausea Relief

It's normal to experience nausea and vomiting from time to time. Both are symptoms of several diseases and conditions, such as overeating, GI issues, and cancer treatments. 

While the sensation of an upset stomach (nausea) and throwing up is unpleasant and uncomfortable, medications and other treatments are available to help relieve these symptoms. 

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What causes nausea?

Many things can cause nausea, with or without vomiting. Some of the common causes include: 

• Pregnancy

• Motion sickness/seasickness

• Stress or anxiety

• Overeating

• Gallbladder disease

• Ulcers

• Appendicitis

• Gastrointestinal disorders

• Food poisoning 

• Influenza (flu) or norovirus (stomach flu)

• Thyroid disorders

• Inner ear problems

• Eating disorders

• Certain medications, like antibiotics, antidepressants, opioid pain medicines, and chemotherapy

Treatment options for nausea

If your nausea is mild, you can usually relieve that icky feeling with home remedies or over-the-counter (OTC) medications. However, if your nausea is severe or you are at risk of dehydration from it, your doctor may prescribe something stronger. 

At-home remedies for nausea

When it comes to treating your nausea, there are a few at-home options to try:

• Increasing water intake/staying hydrated (take smaller sips of water)

• Eating a more bland diet

• Acupressure 

• Aromatherapy

• Ginger

• Herbal teas

• Avoiding soda and other sugar-filled drinks

• Practicing deep breathing 

OTC medications for nausea

Depending on the cause of nausea, these medications may also provide relief and can be found at any big box or drug store. 

• Pepto Bismol

• Vitamin B6

• Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate)

• Emetrol

• Driminate - OTC & prescription

• Bonine (Meclizine HCL)- OTC & prescription 

Prescription medications available for nausea 

Again, depending on the cause and severity of your nausea and vomiting, as well as your risk of becoming dehydrated, your doctor might prescribe you medication. 

Prescription medications currently available for nausea relief include:

• Bonjesta (extended-release) and Diclegis (doxylamine-pyridoxine) for nausea related to pregnancy

•  Marinol (dronabinol) and Cesamet (nabilone) for chemo patients 

•  Transderm Scop patches for motion sickness

• Zofran (ondansetron)

• Promethegan (promethazine)

• Reglan (metoclopramide)

• Ativan (lorazepam)

• Atarax (hydroxyzine)

When to see your doctor about nausea and vomiting

Usually, you don't need to worry too much if you are experiencing nausea and vomiting. However, there are times when you should consult with your doctor, including:

• Showing signs of dehydration

• The chance that you might be pregnant

• Home remedies and OTC medications aren't working

• Nausea lasts for more than a few days

• There's been an injury (i.e., head injury) or known infection

• Babies and children under 6 years of age who have been throwing up for a few hours, have a fever and/or diarrhea, are showing signs of dehydration, or haven't urinated in 4-6 hours

• Children over 6 who are experiencing diarrhea and vomiting for more than a day, dehydration, fever higher than 101 degrees, or haven't urinated for 6 hours

If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Throwing up blood ( vomit may be bright red or "coffee grounds" in appearance)

• Severe headache

• Stiff neck

• Lethargy or confusion

• Intense abdominal pain

• Rapid breathing 

• Raised pulse

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