Emetrol (Phosphorated Carbohydrate Solution)
Direct Answer
Emetrol is an over-the-counter phosphorated carbohydrate solution indicated for nausea and upset stomach in adults and children ≥2 years of age, with specific dosing based on age, but it should not be used in children under 2 years. 1
Active Ingredients and Mechanism
Emetrol contains a phosphorated carbohydrate solution with the following per 5 mL: 1
- Dextrose (glucose): 1.87 g
- Levulose (fructose): 1.87 g
- Phosphoric acid: 21.5 mg
The mechanism involves slowing gastric emptying through the combined effects of carbohydrates and phosphoric acid, which empirically reduces nausea and vomiting. 2
Dosing Recommendations
Adults and Children ≥12 Years
- Dose: 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 mL) 1
- Frequency: Repeat every 15 minutes until distress subsides 1
- Maximum: Do not exceed 5 doses in 1 hour without consulting a physician 1
Children 2 to <12 Years
- Dose: 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 mL) 1
- Frequency: Repeat every 15 minutes until distress subsides 1
- Maximum: Do not exceed 5 doses in 1 hour without consulting a physician 1
Children <2 Years
- Contraindicated: Not recommended for use in this age group 1
Administration Instructions
Critical administration requirements to maximize effectiveness: 1
- Never dilute the product
- Do not drink fluids of any kind immediately before or after taking Emetrol
- Measure only with the dosing cup provided with the product
- The dosing cup should be used exclusively with Emetrol and not with other products
Clinical Context and Limitations
Comparison to Evidence-Based Antiemetics
While Emetrol is available over-the-counter for symptomatic nausea relief, it is important to recognize that for acute gastroenteritis in children <4 years, antiemetic medications (including suppositories) are not recommended because safety and efficacy have not been established. 3 The primary treatment for vomiting in young children remains oral rehydration solution (ORS), not antiemetic agents. 3
For children ≥4 years with acute gastroenteritis, ondansetron may be considered to facilitate oral rehydration, but this represents a different clinical scenario with stronger evidence. 3, 4
Important Clinical Pitfalls
Do not use Emetrol as a substitute for proper fluid and electrolyte replacement in children with vomiting from gastroenteritis—ORS remains the cornerstone of therapy. 3
Do not use in infants <2 years as there is no safety or efficacy data in this population, and the FDA labeling explicitly excludes this age group. 1
Avoid in patients with diabetes mellitus given the high carbohydrate content (3.74 g per 5 mL dose), which could affect blood glucose control. 1
Recognize red-flag symptoms that require immediate evaluation rather than symptomatic treatment: bilious vomiting, forceful/projectile vomiting, abdominal distension, bloody stools, or altered mental status warrant urgent assessment for surgical obstruction. 3
Product Availability
Emetrol is available as a 12 oz (355 mL) oral liquid formulation. 1