Nausea medications help relieve the sensation or the urge to vomit that precedes vomiting. The following write-up provides information on these drugs. Some of these medications require a prescription, whereas some are available over the counter.
Nausea is a condition that is characterized by an urge to vomit. It is not a disease in itself. In fact, it could be a symptom of a medical condition. Often, the condition is associated with motion sickness, while at times it may be accompanied by severe migraine or dizziness. Other contributory factors are indigestion, heartburn, and diarrhea. Nausea is quite common during pregnancy, and is often referred to as morning sickness. Several medications are available over the counter that promise to reduce the discomfort.
OTC and Prescription Medications
Alka-Seltzer
This medication is mostly effective, when the urge to vomit is caused due to acid reflux or indigestion. It leads to the formation of tiny bubbles in the throat, which pushes the acid back in the stomach.
Pepto-Bismol
This is an effective medication for treating nausea that is induced by diarrhea. Diarrhea tends to irritate the stomach lining. This drug helps soothe the irritated lining, thereby providing instant relief.
Dramamine
This drug is often prescribed when the urge to vomit is associated with motion sickness and vertigo. However, one side effect of this drug is that it induces heavy drowsiness. The revised version of the drug with an advanced formula includes meclizine, as an active ingredient.
Diphenhydramine
Diphenhydramine is the most popular medication for the condition. Though it is used for relieving the symptoms of allergies, it is also prescribed for this condition. It causes drowsiness and is not recommended for children below 6 years of age.
Cyclizine
Cyclizine is basically an antihistamine, which effectively gets rid of the urge to vomit and associated symptoms. Like diphenhydramine, this drug also causes drowsiness.
Phenergan
This is a drug mostly prescribed for allergies. However, it successfully cures nausea associated with motion sickness. It works great for chronic motion sickness sufferers.
Natural Treatments
Before opting for the aforementioned medications, one should try the natural or home remedies for the condition. Drinking clear carbonated drinks or ginger ale would help. It is necessary to avoid solid greasy foods, and consume only liquid foods. Drinking water may also relieve the condition. Furthermore, munching on a few dry crackers also helps, especially if nausea is caused by stomach flu.
If the urge to vomit is induced by indigestion, then drinking green tea or chamomile tea would also help soothe the stomach, thereby improving the condition. Furthermore, chewing on a piece of dried ginger or Indian gooseberry might also help provide relief. Often, the condition subsides as soon as one vomits.
It is important to remember that the aforementioned medications only provide relief from the symptoms of nausea. They do not treat the underlying disease. Hence, if one experiences occasional bouts of nausea, it is recommended to consult a doctor. If the condition is due to an unhealthy diet, then one should give more attention to the diet and consume a well-balanced meal.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.
