Medical Treatment

Treatment for hiccups depends on how severe they are.

• For the common hiccups that will usually stop on their own, home remedies are generally recommended.

• For more severe, persistent hiccups, your doctor may try medications to manage your hiccups. Chlorpromazine (Thorazine) is usually the first prescription medication tried for hiccups, although drugs such as baclofen (Lioresal) and medications for convulsions such as phenytoin (Dilantin) have also been successful.

• Surgery to disable the phrenic nerve (the nerve that controls the diaphragm) is often the treatment of last resort.