meclizine

Meclizine is an antihistamine with antiemetic (anti-nausea) and antispasmodic (anti-muscle spasm) activity used to treat and prevent vertigo, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, and motion sickness.

• Meclizine prevents nausea and vomiting by reducing the activity of the center of 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.
• Meclizine also suppresses the nervous system by blocking the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. (Neurotransmitters are chemicals that nerves use for communicating with each other.)

The FDA approved meclizine in February 1957.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Available information suggests that the risk of harm to the baby is minimal when meclizine is used while breastfeeding.

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).