What is Emetrol: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Emetrol is an over-the-counter remedy that relieves nausea associated with upset stomach. The active ingredient in Emetrol liquid is sugar (dextrose and fructose) mixed with phosphoric acid to reduce the pH. Theoretically, sugar slows stomach contractions to calm the stomach. The active ingredient in Emetrol chewable tablets is an antacid (sodium citrate dihydrate) that neutralizes stomach acid. The chewable tablets also contain sugar (dextrose and fructose) that will relax the stomach. All these ingredients are commonly found in foods and are considered safe, though some people on sodium-restricted diets or sugar-restricted diets may need to avoid these products.

Emetrol overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Emetrol, Especol (phosphorated carbohydrates), Formula EM (phosphorated carbohydrates), Nauzene (sodium citrate)

Generic Names:

  • Phosphorated carbohydrates (Emetrol liquid), sodium citrate dihydrate (Emetrol chewable tablets)

Uses:

  • Relieves nausea and upset stomach

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antacid, antiemetic

Forms:

  • Oral solution (liquid), chewable tablets

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Emetrol used for?

Emetrol relieves nausea and upset stomach.

What form(s) does Emetrol come in

  • Oral solution (liquid)

    • 1.87 grams (g) dextrose (glucose), 1.87 g levulose (fructose), 21 mg phosphoric acid / 5 mL

  • Chewable tablets

    • 230 mg sodium citrate dihydrate

What are common Emetrol doses?

  • For relief of upset stomach associated with nausea: 

    • In children 2–12 years old: 5 mL or 10 mL oral solution as needed every 15 minutes

    • In children 12 years and older: 15 mL or 30 mL oral solution as needed every 15 minutes

    • In adults: 15 mL or 30 mL oral solution as needed every 15 minutes OR 2–4 chewable tablets as needed every 15 minutes to a maximum of 24 tablets per day

Common Emetrol prescriptions

  • Emetrol
    118ml of 1.87-1.87-21.5 bottle

How to take Emetrol

  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription. Take doses exactly as instructed.

  • If this medicine is prescribed by a doctor, follow the doctor’s instructions.

  • Take Emetrol doses every 15 minutes until you feel better.

  • How to administer Emetrol oral solution

    • The child should not drink fluids before or after taking a dose of Emetrol

    • The bottle does not need to be shaken before measuring a dose

    • Measure each dose with the dosing cup provided

    • Store Emetrol oral solution at room temperature, protected from heat, freezing, and direct light

  • How to take Emetrol chewable tablets

    • Chew the tablets before swallowing—do not swallow the tablets whole

    • Store Emetrol chewable tablets at room temperature, protected from excessive heat, cold, and moisture

What to do if you miss a dose of Emetrol

  • Take a missed dose when remembered if symptoms are still present.

  • Take the next dose 15 minutes later if needed.

  • Do not administer or take two doses at once.

Emetrol contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone.

  • You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the medication.

  • Emetrol should not be taken by anyone with hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI).

Emetrol warnings

  • Before using Emetrol, talk to a doctor if you:

    • Have diabetes

    • Are on a sodium-restricted diet

    • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Stop taking Emetrol and talk to a healthcare provider if:

    • Symptoms persist or worsen

    • Nausea persists for longer than two weeks or keeps coming back

Emetrol interactions

  • Emetrol chewable tablets contain an antacid that neutralizes stomach acid. As a result of reduced stomach acid, some oral medications may not work very well. If you’re taking prescription medications, talk to a healthcare provider before using Emetrol chewable tablets.

  • Tell any other healthcare provider you are using Emetrol chewable tablets when they prescribe new medications.

  • You can take Emetrol chewable tablets with most oral medications, provided that you take those medications at least two hours before the first dose of Emetrol chewable tablets or two hours after the last dose.

Emetrol side effects

Serious side effects

Talk to a healthcare provider if you notice any signs or symptoms of a possible serious side effect, including:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Sources: