drug and chemical causes

Last reviewed 01/2018

A spectrum of drugs and chemicals may instigate vomiting. Vomiting due to self-poisoning may occur with almost any substance, but prescribed medicines which have this effect commonly include:

  • ipecacuanha for intentional emesis, e.g. in certain cases of poisoning
  • opioid analgesics
  • general anaesthetics
  • cytotoxic chemotherapy
  • anti-parkinsonian drugs such as levodopa and bromocriptine
  • antiepileptic drugs
  • digoxin overdose