Vomiting, while unpleasant, is a protective reflex that expels harmful substances from the body. Once the episode has passed, the primary focus is on rehydration and stomach rest. Medications can offer relief, but the appropriate choice depends on the underlying cause, whether it's a stomach bug, food poisoning, or motion sickness.
Immediate Steps After Vomiting
Before reaching for medication, it's vital to stabilize and rest. Your stomach and digestive system need time to recover.
Prioritize Rehydration
Dehydration is a serious risk after vomiting due to significant fluid loss. The best approach is to reintroduce fluids slowly to avoid triggering more vomiting.
- Wait 30-60 minutes after the last episode of vomiting before drinking anything.
- Begin with very small sips of clear fluids like water, broth, or clear sodas (stirred to remove carbonation) every 15 minutes.
- Electrolyte solutions, such as Pedialyte, are recommended to replace lost salts and minerals, especially for severe or prolonged vomiting.
- Avoid acidic juices, highly sweetened drinks, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can irritate the stomach.
Consider the BRAT Diet
Once you can tolerate clear fluids, you can slowly reintroduce bland foods to your diet. The BRAT diet is a time-tested method for easing back into eating and is especially helpful if vomiting was accompanied by diarrhea. The components are:
- Bananas
- Rice (plain white)
- Applesauce
- Toast (plain and dry)
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication Options
For most mild cases of vomiting, over-the-counter medication can provide effective relief. These medicines are known as antiemetics and work in different ways depending on their active ingredients.
Bismuth Subsalicylate (e.g., Pepto-Bismol)
This medication is a popular choice for nausea and vomiting caused by gastrointestinal issues like stomach flu or food poisoning.
- How it works: It protects the stomach lining, reduces inflammation, and may have an antibacterial effect.
- Important warnings: Do not give bismuth subsalicylate to children under 12, or to children and teens recovering from chickenpox or the flu, due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. It can also turn your tongue and stools black, which is a harmless side effect.
Antihistamines (e.g., Dimenhydrinate, Meclizine)
These are specifically helpful for preventing and treating nausea and vomiting from motion sickness or vertigo.
- How they work: They block signals to the part of the brain that controls nausea and vomiting, particularly those originating from the inner ear.
- Side effects: These medications often cause drowsiness, so they should be used with caution, especially if driving or operating machinery. Non-drowsy formulas are available.
Phosphorated Carbohydrate Solution (e.g., Emetrol)
This non-drowsy formula works to calm an upset stomach by relaxing stomach muscles.
- How it works: It helps relax stomach muscles and reduce contractions that lead to vomiting.
- Usage: It should be taken every 15 minutes until symptoms subside, but no more than five doses per hour. Avoid drinking other fluids immediately before or after taking it.
OTC Antiemetics Comparison Table
| Medication Type | Common Brands | Primary Use | Mechanism | Key Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bismuth Subsalicylate | Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate | Stomach flu, food poisoning, traveler's diarrhea | Coats stomach lining, antibacterial | Tongue/stool discoloration, risk of Reye's syndrome (in children) |
| Dimenhydrinate | Dramamine | Motion sickness, vertigo, inner ear issues | Blocks histamine receptors in the brain | Drowsiness, dry mouth, impaired coordination |
| Meclizine | Bonine, Dramamine Less Drowsy | Motion sickness, vertigo | Blocks histamine receptors, less drowsy than dimenhydrinate | Can still cause drowsiness, dry mouth |
| Phosphorated Solution | Emetrol | Upset stomach | Relaxes stomach muscles | Contains sugar (caution for diabetics) |
When Home Remedies and OTCs Aren't Enough
For severe or persistent cases, a healthcare provider might prescribe stronger antiemetics. For example, Ondansetron (Zofran) is a potent serotonin antagonist often prescribed for severe nausea related to chemotherapy, food poisoning, or surgery. Metoclopramide (Reglan), a dopamine antagonist, can also be used to speed up digestion. Side effects of prescription antiemetics vary and can include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and constipation.
When to See a Doctor
While most vomiting episodes resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.
- Signs of severe dehydration: Infrequent urination, dark-colored urine, dry mouth, lightheadedness, or sunken eyes.
- Persistent vomiting: Vomiting for more than 24 hours in children under 2, 48 hours in adults, or episodes lasting over a month.
- Concerning vomit: Vomit that contains blood, resembles coffee grounds, or is green or yellow-green.
- Other severe symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, stiff neck, high fever, severe headache, or confusion.
Conclusion
Knowing what medicine to take after throwing up involves a careful consideration of the cause and severity. For most routine cases, focusing on small, slow sips of electrolyte-rich fluids and gradually introducing bland foods like the BRAT diet is the best first step. Over-the-counter antiemetics can offer targeted relief for stomach flu or motion sickness, but always read the label carefully and follow dosage instructions. For any severe or prolonged symptoms, or if dehydration is a concern, do not hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure a safe and speedy recovery. For more information on causes and treatment, see the Cleveland Clinic article on Nausea and Vomiting.
