Over-the-counter nausea relief: what to know

Nausea is an unsettled feeling in the stomach that can happen with infection, reflux, irritation of the stomach, heat exhaustion, low blood sugar, medicines or motion. It may occur with vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fever or dizziness. A product that calms the stomach will not treat every cause. Nausea can accompany [Food Poisoning](/conditions/food-poisoning/), [Gastroenteritis](/conditions/gastroenteritis/) or [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/).

Take small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Try bland foods when you can keep fluids down, avoid heavy or greasy meals, and rest somewhere cool if heat may be involved. A pharmacist can check whether an antacid or another non-prescription product fits your symptoms, age, pregnancy status and medicines. Follow the package directions, do not combine products with the same active ingredient, and avoid giving adult products to children without advice. Reflux-related nausea may need a different approach; see [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/).

Get urgent medical help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, vomit containing blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, confusion, fainting, chest pain, a stiff neck, or signs of serious dehydration such as very little urine. Arrange prompt assessment if you cannot keep fluids down, vomiting continues, nausea follows a head injury, or you have diabetes and possible [Hypoglycaemia](/conditions/hypoglycaemia/). Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or pain after meals, also deserves review because liver or gallbladder problems can present with nausea.

Ask what may be causing the nausea, whether any current medicine could contribute, which ingredients are suitable for you, and what warning signs should change the plan.