Medicines and Products for Nausea

The best medicine for nausea depends on the cause. Some causes need a doctor to examine you first.

Common medicines

• Ondansetron: often used for nausea from infection, surgery, chemotherapy and in some other cases, by prescription
• Domperidone and metoclopramide: help the stomach empty. Use only as prescribed because they can affect the heart and movement.
• Antihistamines such as dimenhydrinate, cinnarizine and promethazine: used for motion sickness and vertigo. They cause sleepiness.
• Antacids and acid reducers: when nausea comes from acid or ulcer problems
• Oral rehydration solution: not an anti-nausea medicine, but very important when vomiting or diarrhoea cause fluid loss
• Vitamin B6 (with or without doxylamine): used in early pregnancy nausea, on a doctor's advice

Treating the cause

Antibiotics for some infections, treatment for migraine, adjusting medicines that cause nausea, and treating diabetes, kidney or liver disease.

Cautions

• Do not take anti-nausea medicine to mask severe pain, blood in vomit or high fever. See a doctor.
• Many are not suitable for young children. Ask a paediatrician.
• Pregnancy: ask a doctor before any medicine
• Older adults are more sensitive to side effects such as confusion and sleepiness
• Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements and herbs

Non-drug products

Acupressure wristbands and ginger products have modest, mixed evidence. They are generally safe to try.

Key point

Use medicine for nausea with advice, and treat the cause. Seek care for red flags.