Medications and Drugs
Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
GENERIC NAME: meclizine
BRAND NAMES: Antivert, Bonine, Meni-D, Antrizine
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, rash constipation, diarrhea and
urinary retention (inability or difficulty urinating). Meclizine also has been
associated with hypotension
(low blood pressure) and heart palpitations.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 9/15/2008
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Dizziness - Read about the causes of dizziness including low blood pressure, anemia, dehydration, vertigo, medications, alcohol use, and pregnancy. Diagnosis and treatment information is also included.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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