What Helps with Nausea from Chemotherapy?

Multiple FDA-approved anti-nausea medications effectively manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron (Zofran) blocks certain serotonin receptors and can help prevent chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. How well it works depends on the chemotherapy regimen, timing, and whether it is combined with other anti-nausea medicines. Dexamethasone is a steroid that can improve nausea and vomiting control when combined with other anti-nausea medicines. Metoclopramide helps by speeding gastric emptying and blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. Some people find ginger, acupuncture, small frequent meals, or bland foods such as crackers or toast helpful. Ask your oncology team before taking ginger or any other supplement, because supplements may not be appropriate for everyone and should not replace prescribed anti-nausea medicines. Cold foods often cause less nausea than hot meals. Your oncology team can choose preventive medicines based on your chemotherapy regimen and symptoms. Take them exactly as directed, including medicines prescribed for after treatment, and contact the team promptly if vomiting continues, you cannot keep fluids down, or the medicines are not working.