vomitory

emetic

 [e-met´ik]

1. causing vomiting.

2. an agent that does this; examples are a strong solution of salt, mustard water, powdered ipecac, and ipecac syrup. Emetics should not be used when lye or other strong alkalis or acids have been swallowed, since vomiting may rupture the already weakened walls of the esophagus. Examples of such acids and alkalis are sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), potassium hydroxide (caustic potash), and carbolic acid. Emetics should also be avoided when kerosene, gasoline, nail polish remover, or lacquer thinner has been swallowed, since vomiting of these substances may draw them into the lungs.

Miller-Keane Encyclopedia and Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health, Seventh Edition. © 2003 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier, Inc. All rights reserved.

vomitory

(vŏm′ĭ-tôr′ē)

adj.

Inducing vomiting; vomitive.

n. pl. vomito·ries

1. Something that induces vomiting.

2. An aperture through which matter is discharged.

3. See vomitorium.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2007, 2004 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.