Antiemetics for acute gastroenteritis in children.

Overview

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The alleviation of vomiting due to gastroenteritis in children can help promote oral rehydration and prevent medical visits for dehydration. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent randomized, placebo-controlled trials of newer antiemetics, such as serotonin antagonists like ondansetron, have demonstrated efficacy in relief of vomiting, decreased need for intravenous fluid therapy and hospitalizations, without serious adverse effects. SUMMARY: The ability to arrest further vomiting and prevent intravenous fluid therapy and hospitalization aids children with vomiting so they may tolerate oral fluids and be discharged from medical care. This can reduce the medical care burdens and enhance patient satisfaction. This new pharmaceutical therapy may change how gastroenteritis is managed as it is studied further.