What instant medicine stops vomiting?

October 14, 2025 •

4 min read

While no medication works truly instantly, certain antiemetics, like orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs), are designed for rapid absorption, with some providing relief in as little as 15 to 30 minutes. For many, the question is not what will work instantly, but rather, what instant medicine stops vomiting, and what options offer the fastest possible relief from distressing symptoms?

Quick Summary

Explore the fastest-acting anti-vomiting solutions, from over-the-counter liquids like Emetrol to prescription-strength Ondansetron ODTs. The best choice depends on the cause, as different medications target specific triggers of nausea and vomiting.

Key Points

Fastest OTC Options: Emetrol liquid and Nauzene chewables are among the fastest over-the-counter medicines for stomach-related nausea.
Prescription for Rapid Relief: Ondansetron (Zofran) ODT is a prescription tablet that dissolves on the tongue for fast absorption and is used for severe vomiting.
Cause-Specific Medications: The most effective 'instant' medicine depends on the trigger; antihistamines like Dramamine are best for motion sickness, while Pepto-Bismol targets GI-related issues.
Supportive Measures: During a vomiting episode, take small sips of oral rehydration solution to prevent dehydration while the medication works.
Important Caveat: No medicine works instantaneously; 'rapid relief' means the onset of action is faster than standard pills, typically within 15-60 minutes.
When to See a Doctor: Seek professional medical advice for severe, prolonged, or unexplained vomiting, as it can indicate a more serious condition.

Understanding the Speed of Anti-Vomiting Medications

When experiencing severe nausea and vomiting, the desire for 'instant' relief is understandable. However, no medication provides immediate, instantaneous cessation of symptoms. The speed of relief depends on several factors, including the drug's formulation (liquid vs. tablet), its mechanism of action, and the underlying cause of the vomiting. Quick-dissolving tablets, fast-acting liquids, and specific patches can act more rapidly than standard tablets that need to be absorbed in the stomach.

Over-the-Counter Options for Rapid Relief

For many common causes of vomiting, such as upset stomach from overindulgence or stomach flu, several non-prescription medications offer fast action.

Emetrol

One of the most frequently cited options for rapid OTC relief is Emetrol, a liquid formula containing phosphoric acid, dextrose, and fructose. Instead of coating the stomach like an antacid, Emetrol works by calming the stomach muscles to address the source of the nausea. This non-drowsy liquid can provide relief in as little as 15 to 30 minutes.

Nauzene Chewables

Nauzene is another non-drowsy, fast-acting chewable tablet formulated to provide quick relief from upset stomach and nausea, with some users reporting results in minutes. Its formulation often includes ingredients like sodium citrate, which can calm stomach upset.

Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)

This active ingredient is found in Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate and is effective for nausea and vomiting caused by stomach flu or food poisoning. It works by protecting the stomach lining and reducing inflammation. However, it is not suitable for children under 12 or individuals allergic to aspirin.

Antihistamines (Dramamine, Bonine)

For vomiting caused by motion sickness, antihistamines are a rapid and effective option. Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) and meclizine (Bonine) work by blocking signals to the brain's vomiting center from the inner ear. While highly effective for motion-related causes, many of these medications cause drowsiness.

Prescription Medications for Severe Vomiting

When OTC options are not sufficient, or for severe cases resulting from medical treatments like chemotherapy, doctors may prescribe stronger, faster-acting antiemetics.

Ondansetron (Zofran) Orally Disintegrating Tablets (ODT)

Ondansetron is a prescription serotonin antagonist used to prevent severe nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. The ODT form, which dissolves on the tongue without water, is absorbed rapidly, with effects starting in about 30 minutes. This quick-acting formulation is especially useful when swallowing a traditional pill is difficult due to persistent vomiting. The tablets dissolve within seconds, allowing the active ingredient to begin working swiftly.

How Ondansetron (Zofran) Works:

It blocks the action of serotonin, a natural substance in the body that can cause nausea and vomiting.
It acts on specific receptors in both the brain and the intestines to prevent the vomiting reflex.
The ODT form bypasses the need for full gastric emptying, allowing for faster absorption into the bloodstream.

Other Prescription Options

Other prescription antiemetics, such as promethazine or metoclopramide, are also effective but typically take slightly longer to work or are associated with more side effects, including drowsiness. These are generally used for more specific situations and under a doctor's guidance.

Comparison of Fast-Acting Anti-Vomiting Medications


Medication (Active Ingredient)	Availability	Speed to Action	Best For...	Key Consideration
Emetrol (Phosphoric acid/dextrose/fructose)	Over-the-Counter	Fast (15-60 min)	Upset stomach from illness or overindulgence	Non-drowsy, doesn't coat the stomach.
Ondansetron ODT (Ondansetron)	Prescription	Fast (approx. 30 min)	Severe nausea (chemo, post-op)	Prescription required, very effective for severe cases.
Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)	Over-the-Counter	Fast (15-30 min)	Motion sickness	Can cause significant drowsiness.
Meclizine (Bonine, Dramamine Less Drowsy)	Over-the-Counter	Medium (approx. 1 hour)	Motion sickness and vertigo	Less drowsy than dimenhydrinate but not as fast.
Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)	Over-the-Counter	Medium (variable)	Stomach flu, food poisoning	Not for children under 12, can cause tongue discoloration.

Non-Medical Methods for Nausea

While waiting for medicine to take effect, or for less severe cases, several non-medicinal approaches can help mitigate symptoms:

Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): To prevent dehydration from vomiting, take small, frequent sips of an ORS like Pedialyte or a homemade mixture. Drinking too much at once can trigger more vomiting.
Bland Foods: When ready to eat, stick to the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast).
Ginger: Ginger in various forms, such as tea or candies, is a well-regarded remedy for mild to moderate nausea.
Peppermint: Inhaling peppermint oil or drinking peppermint tea may help calm the stomach.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many episodes of vomiting resolve on their own, it is crucial to know when to seek professional medical advice. A consultation is warranted if vomiting is persistent (more than 24-48 hours), severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as high fever, severe abdominal pain, chest pain, confusion, or signs of dehydration like dark urine or extreme thirst. If you are taking medication for another condition, it is also important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a new antiemetic to avoid potential drug interactions.

Conclusion

While a truly "instant" medicine stops vomiting only in marketing, several fast-acting antiemetics are available for rapid relief. Over-the-counter options like Emetrol and motion sickness antihistamines can work quickly for common causes, often starting within 30 minutes. For severe, medically-induced vomiting, a prescription for Ondansetron (Zofran) ODT offers a rapid and reliable solution by dissolving quickly on the tongue. However, it is essential to identify the underlying cause of vomiting and consult a healthcare provider for any severe or persistent symptoms to ensure the safest and most effective treatment. Combining rapid-acting medication with supportive care, such as oral rehydration, can offer the quickest return to comfort and health. For more detailed drug information, see the MedlinePlus Drug Information on Ondansetron.

Frequently Asked Questions

For nausea caused by upset stomach, Emetrol liquid or chewables are marketed for rapid relief by calming stomach contractions, sometimes starting within 15 minutes. For motion sickness, antihistamines like Dramamine can work quickly.

Ondansetron, a prescription anti-nausea medication, works quickly, especially the orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) form. It begins to work within about 30 minutes of taking it, providing fast relief for severe vomiting.

No medication provides instantaneous relief. However, rapid-acting formulations like Emetrol liquid or Ondansetron ODT, which are absorbed quickly, offer the fastest possible relief. Non-medical remedies like inhaling peppermint oil might offer immediate, albeit temporary, sensory relief.

It is generally recommended to wait a short period, perhaps 15 to 30 minutes, and first try taking small, frequent sips of water. If you are able to keep the fluid down, you can then try taking the medication.

The fastest way to rehydrate is by taking small, frequent sips of an oral rehydration solution (ORS) like Pedialyte or a homemade mixture. This replaces lost electrolytes and water without overwhelming the stomach. Avoid gulping large amounts of fluid.

For mild nausea, some natural remedies can act quickly. Consuming ginger, either as tea or candy, or inhaling peppermint oil can sometimes provide rapid relief.

You should see a doctor if your vomiting is persistent (more than 1-2 days), severe, or accompanied by symptoms like high fever, severe abdominal pain, chest pain, confusion, or signs of dehydration. A doctor can diagnose the cause and recommend the most effective treatment.