Antiemetics: What They Are, How They Work, and Which Ones You Might Need

When you feel sick to your stomach or can’t keep food down, antiemetics, medications designed to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting. Also known as anti-nausea drugs, they’re one of the most commonly used tools in both hospitals and home medicine cabinets. Whether it’s from a stomach bug, motion on a boat, morning sickness, or chemo, antiemetics don’t just make you feel better—they help you stay hydrated, eat properly, and recover faster.

There are several types of antiemetics, each working in different parts of your body. Some target the brain’s vomiting center, like ondansetron, a serotonin blocker often used after cancer treatment. Others calm your stomach directly, like metoclopramide, which speeds up digestion and reduces nausea from slow stomach emptying. Then there are older options like dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine used for motion sickness and dizziness. Each has its own use case, side effects, and timing—some work fast, others build up over hours. What works for chemo nausea might not help with morning sickness, and vice versa.

Not all nausea needs a prescription. Some antiemetics are available over the counter, like ginger supplements or bismuth subsalicylate. But if you’re on chemo, recovering from surgery, or pregnant, knowing which drug is safest matters. Some can cause drowsiness, headaches, or even heart rhythm changes if used long-term. That’s why it’s not just about stopping the vomit—it’s about picking the right tool for your situation.

The posts below cover real-world comparisons and practical advice. You’ll find guides on how antiemetics interact with other drugs, which ones are best for specific conditions like pregnancy or cancer, and how to avoid common mistakes when using them. Whether you’re managing side effects for yourself or someone else, this collection gives you the facts you need to make smarter choices—without the fluff.