emetics

Emetics are substances or practices that induce vomiting. They are used in some cases of ingestion of toxic substances, though their use has declined due to limited effectiveness and potential harm. An emetic can be a chemical agent (emetic) or a physical procedure to provoke vomiting.

Most common historic emetic is syrup of ipecac, derived from the root of ipecacuanha. Its active alkaloids, emetine and cephaeline, stimulate the chemoreceptor trigger zone and irritate the stomach to provoke vomiting. Apomorphine is another emetic, a dopamine agonist that rapidly induces vomiting by activating the CTZ; it is primarily used in veterinary medicine. In humans its use is now rare and restricted in some regions due to safety concerns and variable outcomes.

Current clinical guidance generally discourages routine use of emetics for poisoning. Inducing vomiting outside medical supervision can cause aspiration, esophageal damage, worsening of caustic ingestions, or delayed treatment. Most poisonings are managed with supportive care and, when appropriate, activated charcoal if within a suitable time window, or gastric lavage/whole bowel irrigation in certain hospital settings. Avoiding emesis is emphasized for caustic substances, hydrocarbons, or heavy risk of aspiration or decreased consciousness.

In veterinary practice, emetics are still employed in some species under veterinary supervision; agents and procedures differ from human medicine. The term emesis is derived from Greek emesis, meaning vomiting.