Main Page | See live article | Alphabetical index

Emetic

An emetic, such as Syrup of Ipecac, is a substance that induces vomiting when administered orally or by injection. An emetic is used medically where a substance (typically poison) has been ingested and must be expelled from the body immediately. Inducing vomiting can remove the substance before it is absorbed into the body.

See also: antiemetic.