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Nausea and vomiting

Many cancer treatments can cause nausea. Today's anti-nausea medicines work well, so you don't have to just put up with it. Cleveland Clinic notes it affects up to 80% of people who get chemo, which is why preventing it matters.

When it happens

It can start within hours of treatment (acute) or a few days later (delayed). Some people feel sick just before treatment (anticipatory).

What helps at home

Take anti-nausea medicine exactly as prescribed, including before you feel sick.
Eat small meals and snacks often; an empty stomach can make nausea worse.
Try bland, dry foods like crackers or toast.
Sip clear fluids through the day.
Avoid strong smells; cold foods often smell less.
Fresh air and loose clothes can help.

Call your care team now if you have:

You can't keep fluids down for 24 hours
Vomiting more than 3 times in an hour or many times in a day
You're dizzy, or peeing much less (signs of dehydration)
Your medicine isn't helping

Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain or signs of stroke.

Drugs on this site linked to nausea

▶ Watch

Watch: How to Manage Side Effects During Cancer Treatment: Fatigue, Hair, Skin Care | Cancer Straight Talk (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center)

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💬 What experts are saying

An ovarian cancer expert on OncLive says nausea is the most common side effect of PARP inhibitors like Lynparza and Zejula and often fades over about 4 to 8 weeks. Low platelets are more common with Zejula, and doctors may pick a lower starting dose for people with lower body weight or platelet counts.

Source: Management of PARP Inhibitor AEs in Ovarian Cancer (OncLive, April 29, 2019)

Find support

CancerCare: Free counseling, support groups and financial help
Cancer Support Community: Support groups, a helpline and the MyLifeLine online community
Imerman Angels: Free one-on-one matching with a survivor or caregiver mentor
American Cancer Society: 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345), rides to treatment, lodging and information

Common questions

How long does chemo nausea last?

Often a few days after each treatment, but it varies.

What should I eat when I'm nauseous?

Small, bland, dry foods and clear fluids. See our food guide.

Written by the Cancer Side Effects Guide team from FDA labels and leading cancer centers. Not medical advice. · Last updated: October 15, 2026 · How we write

Not medical advice. This page is general information to help you talk with your care team. It can't replace advice from your doctor or nurse. If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher during treatment, or any symptom that worries you, call your care team now. In an emergency, call 911.