Infections
Medicines for Norovirus
A very common, highly infectious cause of sudden vomiting and diarrhoea — unpleasant but usually short-lived, with the main risk being dehydration.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus, often called the winter vomiting bug, is a very common and highly contagious cause of gastroenteritis (tummy bug). It causes the sudden onset of nausea, forceful vomiting and watery diarrhoea, sometimes with a mild fever, aching and headache.
- How it is treated: There is no specific treatment; the body clears the virus on its own, so care focuses on staying hydrated and letting it run its course.
- Self-care: Drink small amounts of fluid often to prevent dehydration, rest, and return to bland foods gradually.
- When to seek help: See a GP or call NHS 111 if you cannot keep fluids down, show signs of dehydration (little urine, dizziness), have blood in the stool, symptoms lasting more than a few days, or are caring for a baby, elderly or vulnerable person who is unwell.
What it is
Norovirus, often called the winter vomiting bug, is a very common and highly contagious cause of gastroenteritis (tummy bug). It causes the sudden onset of nausea, forceful vomiting and watery diarrhoea, sometimes with a mild fever, aching and headache. Symptoms usually start a day or two after exposure and last about two to three days. It spreads very easily — through contact with infected people, contaminated surfaces or food — which is why it causes outbreaks in places like hospitals, care homes, schools and cruise ships. Most people recover fully, and the main risk is dehydration, especially in the very young, the elderly and those with other health problems.
How it is treated
There is no specific treatment; the body clears the virus on its own, so care focuses on staying hydrated and letting it run its course. Drinking small amounts of fluid often is the key, and rehydration solutions can help those at risk of dehydration. Rest and gradually returning to normal foods as able help recovery. Because it spreads so easily, staying off work or school until at least 48 hours after symptoms stop, thorough handwashing (hand gels are less effective against it), and cleaning contaminated surfaces are important to limit spread.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Norovirus
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Drink small amounts of fluid often to prevent dehydration, rest, and return to bland foods gradually. Stay off work/school until 48 hours after symptoms stop, wash hands thoroughly with soap, and clean surfaces to limit spread.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP or call NHS 111 if you cannot keep fluids down, show signs of dehydration (little urine, dizziness), have blood in the stool, symptoms lasting more than a few days, or are caring for a baby, elderly or vulnerable person who is unwell.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Norovirus: frequently asked questions
How long does norovirus last?
Symptoms usually last about two to three days and clear on their own. The main thing is to keep drinking small amounts of fluid to avoid dehydration.
How can I avoid spreading norovirus?
Stay off work or school until 48 hours after symptoms stop, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water (hand gels are less effective), and clean contaminated surfaces. Avoid preparing food for others while unwell.
Keep reading
Related articles
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Norovirus
- UKHSA — Norovirus guidance
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