Vomiting caused by a medicine

Many medicines can cause vomiting. Vomiting may be a symptom of a medicine allergy, particularly when a rash and hives are also present. Medicines that are most likely to cause vomiting include:

• Antibiotics, such as ampicillin, cefuroxime axetil, clindamycin, or erythromycin.
• Antiseizure medicines, such as phenytoin (Dilantin).
• Aspirin. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than age 20 unless directed to do so by your doctor.
• Chemotherapy.
• Digoxin.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen.
• Theophylline.

If vomiting occurs following the start of a medicine, call the doctor who prescribed it. The medicine may need to be stopped or the dosage adjusted. An appointment may not be necessary.

If your child has vomiting that you think may be caused by a medicine:

• Call the doctor who prescribed the medicine the same day (before your child's next dose) to determine whether your child should stop taking the medicine or take a different one. An appointment may not be necessary.
• If you gave your child a medicine not prescribed by a doctor (nonprescription), stop giving the medicine. If you feel your child needs to continue taking the medicine, call your doctor.