What are the traditional treatments for nausea and vomiting?

From the Guidelines

Traditional treatments for nausea and vomiting include the use of antiemetic agents such as dopamine receptor antagonists, antihistamines, anticholinergics, and serotonin receptor antagonists, with metoclopramide being a commonly recommended option 1. The most effective approach to managing nausea and vomiting often involves a combination of these agents, with the specific choice of medication depending on the underlying cause of the symptoms.

• Dopamine receptor antagonists, such as prochlorperazine and metoclopramide, are commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting, particularly in cases where the symptoms are related to chemotherapy or radiation therapy 1.
• Serotonin receptor antagonists, such as ondansetron and granisetron, are also effective in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting, especially in patients undergoing surgery or receiving chemotherapy 1.
• Antihistamines and anticholinergics may also be used to manage nausea and vomiting, although their effectiveness may vary depending on the specific cause of the symptoms 1. It is essential to note that the treatment of nausea and vomiting should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and underlying medical conditions, and that a combination of medications and other interventions, such as dietary changes and alternative therapies, may be necessary to achieve optimal results 1.
• In some cases, alternative therapies such as acupuncture, hypnosis, and cognitive behavioral therapy may also be considered as adjunctive treatments for nausea and vomiting 1.
• Additionally, corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, may be used to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms in certain cases 1.
• Overall, the most effective treatment approach for nausea and vomiting will depend on the specific cause and severity of the symptoms, as well as the individual patient's medical history and response to treatment.

From the FDA Drug Label

For the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Associated with Emetogenic Cancer Chemotherapy Prevention and control of nausea and vomiting associated with certain types of anesthesia and surgery. For control of severe nausea and vomiting. The traditional treatments for nausea and vomiting include:

• Metoclopramide 2 for the prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with emetogenic cancer chemotherapy and for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting
• Promethazine 3 for the prevention and control of nausea and vomiting associated with certain types of anesthesia and surgery
• Prochlorperazine 4 for the control of severe nausea and vomiting

From the Research

Traditional Treatments for Nausea and Vomiting

• The traditional treatments for nausea and vomiting include antiemetic agents such as droperidol, promethazine, prochlorperazine, metoclopramide, and ondansetron 5.
• These medications have been used to treat nausea and vomiting in various settings, including the emergency department and postoperative care 5, 6, 7.
• The choice of medication depends on the underlying cause of nausea and vomiting, as well as the patient's medical history and preferences 6, 7.

Commonly Used Antiemetics

• Droperidol is a butyrophenone that is effective in treating nausea and vomiting, but its use is limited due to the risk of QT prolongation and other adverse effects 5, 7.
• Promethazine is a phenothiazine that is commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting, but it can cause sedation and other adverse effects 5, 7, 8.
• Prochlorperazine is a phenothiazine that is effective in treating nausea and vomiting, but it can cause extrapyramidal symptoms and other adverse effects 5, 6, 7.
• Metoclopramide is a benzamide that is effective in treating nausea and vomiting, but it can cause extrapyramidal symptoms and other adverse effects 5, 6, 7, 9.
• Ondansetron is a serotonin receptor antagonist that is effective in treating nausea and vomiting, with a lower risk of adverse effects compared to other antiemetics 5, 6, 7.

Considerations for Treatment

• The treatment of nausea and vomiting should be individualized based on the patient's underlying condition, medical history, and preferences 6, 7, 9.
• Combination antiemetic therapy may be effective in treating nausea and vomiting, especially in patients who do not respond to single-agent therapy 7.
• The use of antiemetics should be carefully monitored for adverse effects, and dose adjustments should be made as needed to minimize the risk of adverse effects 8, 9.