Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.
Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Meclizine is an antihistamine with
antiemetic (anti-nausea) and antispasmodic (anti-muscle spasm) activity. It also
suppresses the nervous system by blocking the action of the neurotransmitter
acetylcholine. (Neurotransmitters are chemicals that nerves use for
communicating with each other.) Meclizine prevents
nausea and vomiting by
reducing the activity of the center in the brain that controls nausea. It also
prevents motion sickness by reducing excitability of neurons in the motion and
balance center (vestibular region) of the brain.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes; no (Dramamine less drowsy formula)
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 12.5, 25, and 50 mg. Capsule: 25 mg
STORAGE: Meclizine tablets should be stored between 15-30 C (59-86 F).
Capsules should be stored below 30 C (86 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Meclizine is used for the treatment of nausea,
vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. Meclizine possibly is
effective in the treatment of vertigo (balance disorder) caused by diseases of
the body's balance (vestibular) system.
DOSING: When used for treating symptoms of motion sickness, meclizine
25-50 mg should be taken one hour prior to travel and then every 24 hours for
the duration of the journey. The dosing should not exceed 2 tablets in 24 hours.
Vertigo is treated with 25-100 mg daily in divided doses.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers can increase
drowsiness caused by meclizine.
PREGNANCY: Meclizine has been used to control nausea during
pregnancy.
Available evidence does not suggest that use of meclizine during pregnancy is
harmful. However, meclizine should be used in pregnancy only if it is clearly
needed and under the supervision of a physician.
NURSING MOTHERS: Available information suggests that the risk of harm
to the baby is minimal when meclizine is used while
nursing.
SIDE EFFECTS: Meclizine can cause drowsiness. Other side effects
include nausea, dry mouth, blurred vision, rashconstipation, diarrhea and
urinary retention (inability or difficulty urinating). Meclizine also has been
associated with hypotension
(low blood pressure) and heart palpitations.
Dizziness is a symptom that is often applies to a variety of sensations including lightheadedness and vertigo. Causes of dizziness include low blood pressure, heart problems, anemia, dehydration, and more. Treatment of dizziness depends on the cause.
Nausea is an uneasiness of the stomach that often precedes vomiting. Nausea and vomiting are not diseases, but they are symptoms of many conditions. The causes of vomiting differ according to age, and treatment depends upon the cause of nausea and vomiting.
Vertigo is a feeling of spinning movement, and at times accompanied by nausea and vomiting occur. Vertigo is most often associated with an inner ear problem. The treatment for vertigo can be lifestyle changes and medication if necessary.
Motion sickness, often referred to as car sickness, sea sickness, or air sickness, is a very common disturbance of the inner ear that is caused by repeated motion. The cause of motion sickness is complex. Symptoms of motion sickness include vomiting, nausea, dizziness, vertigo, sweating, and a feeling of malaise. Treatment of motion sickness include antihistamine medications such as meclizine (Bonine, Antivert, Dramamine), and scopolamine (Transderm Scop) a skin patch.
Nausea and vomiting are symptoms that may be caused by many conditions. Antiemetics are drugs that treat nausea and vomiting. Though some antiemetics for motion sickness and mild nausea are available over the counter (OTC), most require a medical evaluation and prescription.
Meniere disease (idiopathic endolymphatic hydrops) is an inner ear disorder with symptoms that include vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and the sensation of ear fullness. Diuretics, anti-vertigo, anti-nausea and low salt diets are the primary treatment for Meniere disease. Surgery may be recommended if the vertigo cannot be controlled with medication.
Balance is a state of body equilibrium or stability. We often take for granted how dependent we are on a healthy balance system. When the system breaks down, however, patients will describe symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, lightheadedness, or motion sickness.
Meniere's disease is a disorder of the flow of fluids of the inner ear.
What causes Meniere's disease?
Although the cause of Meniere's disease is unknown, it probably results from an abnormality in the way fluid of the inner ear is regulated. In most cases only one ear is involved, but both ears may be affected in about 10% to 20% of patients. Meniere's disease typically starts between the ages of 20 and 50 years of age (although it has been reported in nearly all age groups). Men and women are equally affected. The symptoms may be only a minor nuisance, or can become disabling, especially if the attacks of vertigo are severe, frequent, and occur without warning. Meniere's disease is also called idiopathic endolymphatic hydrops.
What are the symptoms of Meniere's disease?
The symptoms of Meniere's disease typically include at least several of the following:
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