Best Over The Counter Medicine For Severe Nausea
Severe nausea can be a debilitating condition that affects a person's quality of life. It can be caused by a variety of factors like motion sickness, pregnancy, chemotherapy, or gastroenteritis. It is important to note that severe nausea can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, and it is best to consult a doctor if it persists.
However, if you are experiencing occasional or mild nausea, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can provide relief. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicine for severe nausea.
1. Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate)
Dramamine is a common OTC drug that is used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It is also effective in treating nausea caused by other factors like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. The active ingredient in Dramamine is dimenhydrinate, which works by blocking the action of histamine in the brain.
The recommended dosage of Dramamine for adults is 50-100mg every 4-6 hours as needed. However, it is important to note that dimenhydrinate can cause drowsiness, so it is best to avoid operating heavy machinery or driving while taking this medication.
2. Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate)
Pepto-Bismol is another popular OTC medication that is used to treat nausea, heartburn, indigestion, and diarrhea. The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate, which works by coating the stomach and reducing inflammation.
The recommended dosage of Pepto-Bismol for adults is 2 tablets or 30ml every 30-60 minutes as needed, up to 8 doses in 24 hours. However, it is important to note that bismuth subsalicylate can interact with certain medications like blood thinners, so it is best to consult a doctor before taking this medication.
3. Emetrol (Phosphorated Carbohydrate Solution)
Emetrol is an OTC medication that is specifically designed to treat nausea and vomiting caused by stomach flu, food poisoning, or other gastrointestinal disorders. The active ingredient in Emetrol is phosphorated carbohydrate solution, which works by neutralizing stomach acid and reducing nausea.
The recommended dosage of Emetrol for adults is 1-2 tablespoons every 15 minutes up to 5 doses, or as directed by a doctor. It is important to note that Emetrol should not be taken by people with diabetes or those who are allergic to any of the ingredients.
4. Bonine (Meclizine)
Bonine is an OTC medication that is used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. The active ingredient in Bonine is meclizine, which works by blocking the action of histamine in the brain.
The recommended dosage of Bonine for adults is 1-2 tablets every 24 hours as needed. However, it is important to note that meclizine can cause drowsiness, so it is best to avoid operating heavy machinery or driving while taking this medication.
5. Zofran (Ondansetron)
Zofran is an OTC medication that is commonly used to treat severe nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. The active ingredient in Zofran is ondansetron, which works by blocking the action of serotonin in the brain.
The recommended dosage of Zofran for adults is 8mg every 12 hours as needed. However, it is important to note that ondansetron can interact with certain medications like antibiotics and antidepressants, so it is best to consult a doctor before taking this medication.
Conclusion
Severe nausea can be a debilitating condition that affects a person's quality of life. However, there are several OTC medications that can provide relief from nausea caused by motion sickness, pregnancy, chemotherapy, or gastroenteritis. It is important to note that it is best to consult a doctor if the nausea persists, and it is also important to follow the recommended dosage instructions for these medications.
Overall, Dramamine, Pepto-Bismol, Emetrol, Bonine, and Zofran are some of the best OTC medications for severe nausea, and they can provide quick relief from this uncomfortable condition.