From the Guidelines
For vomiting relief, I recommend over-the-counter antiemetics like Dramamine (dimenhydrinate), Bonine (meclizine), or Emetrol that you can purchase at CVS. These medications are available at convenience stores and can help alleviate vomiting symptoms. According to the American Gastroenterological Association medical position statement 1, antiemetic agents such as antidopaminergics, antihistamines, anticholinergics, and serotonin receptor antagonists can be effective in treating nausea and vomiting. Dramamine or Bonine are typically taken as 25-50mg every 4-6 hours as needed, while Emetrol is taken as 15-30mL (1-2 tablespoons) every 15 minutes until symptoms subside.
Some key points to consider when using these medications include:
- Staying hydrated with small sips of clear fluids or electrolyte solutions like Pedialyte or Gatorade to prevent dehydration
- Avoiding solid foods initially, then gradually introducing bland foods like crackers or toast when you feel ready
- Being aware that these medications work by either blocking signals to your brain's vomiting center or coating and soothing your stomach lining
- Seeking medical attention immediately if vomiting persists beyond 24 hours, contains blood, or is accompanied by severe abdominal pain or high fever
It's also worth noting that while ginger supplements (250mg capsules) or ginger candies may have natural anti-inflammatory properties, the evidence for their use in preventing nausea and vomiting is insufficient, as stated in the American Society of Clinical Oncology clinical practice guideline update 1. Therefore, over-the-counter antiemetics like Dramamine, Bonine, or Emetrol are the most recommended options for vomiting relief.
From the FDA Drug Label
Purpose Upset stomach reliever and antidiarrheal The answer to what can be purchased from Convenience Stores to help with vomiting is bismuth subsalicylate (PO), as it is an upset stomach reliever, which may help with vomiting, however the label does not explicitly state it is for vomiting. 2
From the Research
Medications for Vomiting
- Antiemetic drugs can be used to treat vomiting, including serotonin antagonists, dopamine antagonists, and antihistamines 3, 4
- Specific medications that can be used to treat vomiting include ondansetron, metoclopramide, and promethazine 3, 5
- Ginger and vitamin B6 have also been shown to be effective in treating nausea and vomiting, particularly in pregnancy 6
Over-the-Counter Options
- Some antiemetic medications, such as dimenhydrinate and doxylamine, are available over-the-counter and can be purchased at convenience stores 6
- Ginger products, such as ginger ale or ginger tea, can also be found at convenience stores and may help alleviate nausea and vomiting 6