What is the viral name for vomiting, also known as emesis?

From the FDA Drug Label

The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

The viral name for vomiting is typically norovirus, also known as the "winter vomiting bug". Norovirus is highly contagious and causes sudden onset of severe vomiting and diarrhea [ 1 ]. Other viruses that commonly cause vomiting include rotavirus (especially in children), adenovirus, and astrovirus. Treatment is primarily supportive care with fluid replacement to prevent dehydration. Small, frequent sips of clear fluids like water, diluted juice, or oral rehydration solutions are recommended. Anti-nausea medications like ondansetron may be prescribed in severe cases, though most viral causes resolve within 1-3 days without specific treatment.

Key Points to Consider

• The most recent and highest quality study [ 2 ] compared the efficacy of oral ondansetron, metoclopramide, and domperidone in managing vomiting in children with acute gastroenteritis, and found that ondansetron demonstrated superior efficacy.
• Norovirus is a major cause of gastroenteritis, and its spread can be prevented through thorough handwashing and disinfecting surfaces [ 1 ].
• If vomiting persists beyond 2 days, is accompanied by high fever, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration (decreased urination, extreme thirst, dizziness), medical attention should be sought promptly.

Management of Vomiting

• Oral ondansetron is effective in managing AGE-related vomiting in children [ 2 ].
• The dose of ondansetron is 0.15 mg/kg, adjusted according to body weight [ 2 ].
• Adverse effects of ondansetron are minimal and comparable to other anti-nausea medications [ 2 ].