What is meclizine? What are the uses for meclizine?
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. The FDA approved meclizine in February 1957.
Meclizine is used to treat and prevent vertigo, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, and motion sickness.
Is meclizine available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for meclizine?
Yes
What are the side effects of meclizine?
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.
SLIDESHOW
Tinnitus: Why Are My Ears Ringing? See SlideshowWhat is the dosage for meclizine?
When used for treating symptoms of motion sickness, meclizine 12.5-50 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 50 mg in 24 hours. Vertigo is treated with 25-100 mg daily in a single dose or in 4 divided dose
Which drugs or supplements interact with meclizine?
Alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers can increase drowsiness caused by meclizine. Combining meclizine with pramlintide (Symlin) increases the effect of both drugs on slowing bowel movement.
Is meclizine safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Available information suggests that the risk of harm to the baby is minimal when meclizine is used while breastfeeding.
What else should I know about meclizine?
What preparations of meclizine are available?
Tablets: 12.5, 25, and 50 mg. Chewable Tablets: 25 mg
How should I keep meclizine stored?
Meclizine tablets should be stored between 15 C and 30 C (59 and 86 F). Capsules should be stored below 30 C (86 F).
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Summary
Meclizine (Antivert, Bonine, Meni-D, Antrizine) is an OTC antinausea medication used to treat nausea and vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. Side effects, drug interactions, dosage, storage, and pregnancy safety information should be reviewed prior to taking any medication.
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