What Is Meclizine?

Meclizine belongs to a group of medicines called antihistamines, which are commonly used when it comes to treating the symptoms of allergies. In this particular case, Meclizine can be used to prevent the spinning sensation that you might experience when dizzy. It can be prescribed to patients experiencing this symptom as a result of allergies, motion sickness, diseases, or otherwise.

Common brand names for Meclizine are Antivert, Bonine, Meni-D, Meclicot, Dramamine Less Drowsy, and VertiCalm.

How Does Meclizine Work?

As Meclizine is an antihistamine, it can help to block the signals to the brain that cause the vertigo response in your body. If you know that you are going to experience motion sickness, Meclizine can help prevent your symptoms by blocking these signals. 

With that said, you should know that as an antihistamine, Meclizine is not a cure for your condition. Feeling better after using does not mean that you are cured, and you should continue to take it as appropriate and instructed by your healthcare provider.

You might not experience the results of the medication for at least an hour after taking it, so it’s important that you know when you should take it and prepare.

What Is Meclizine Used For?

Generally, Meclizine will be used to treat patients who are experiencing severe dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or vertigo. It can help to reduce the symptoms of motion sickness in patients and can be used to help prevent and alleviate any dizziness or discomfort.

Meclizine is not used as a cure or means of treatment for certain conditions and diseases and only helps to alleviate symptoms – rather than take permanent action.

What Are the Side Effects of Meclizine?

If you have been prescribed Meclizine, it’s important that you are aware of the side effects that can occur. The following are some of the common side effects:

• Experiencing headaches
• Constipation
• Difficulty urinating
• Difficulty sleeping
• Upset stomach
• Drowsiness 

However, you may experience more serious side effects after taking this medication, in which you should stop usage and contact your healthcare provider immediately:

• Feeling lightheaded
• Increased or irregular heartbeat

The listed side effects are not comprehensive, so it’s important that you read the accompanying information with your medication or talk to your healthcare provider about any other possible side effects.

How to Take Meclizine?

It should be noted before taking that Meclizine can make symptoms of other various conditions worse. It’s important that you communicate well with your healthcare provider about any other conditions you might be experiencing, to determine whether or not Meclizine is the right medication for you.

When you’re taking Meclizine, you should not do anything other than what your healthcare provider has recommended. Your dosage should be as instructed, as well as when and how you should take your medication. 

If you are going to prevent symptoms of motion sickness, you should consider taking Meclizine an hour before you start traveling – however, you should be sure that the side effects will not put you in danger while you use this medication. Depending on your condition, your doctor may instruct you to take more or less daily – and you should take as many as instructed.

If you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as possible, unless you are close to your next dose.

Frequently Asked Questions About Meclizine

Are Meclizine and Dramamine the Same?

Meclizine and Dramamine are not the same, although they are both antihistamines used for similar purposes such as treating motion sickness and vertigo.

The main difference between the two is the active ingredients. Meclizine is itself an active ingredient and is also a component in brands like Antivert and Bonine, while the original Dramamine contains dimenhydrinate.

Dramamine does offer a “Less Drowsy” version that contains meclizine, but it’s essential to read labels carefully to know which active ingredient you’re getting.

The two drugs may also have different side effects and contraindications.

What to Avoid While Taking Meclizine?

While taking Meclizine you should avoid the following:

• Alcohol – Drinking alcohol while taking Meclizine can increase the risk of drowsiness and impaired judgment.
• Driving or doing other things that require you to be alert – When you start taking Meclizine, you should avoid doing activities that require alertness until you know how it affects you.
• CNS depressants – Medications that depress the central nervous system, such as sedatives, tranquilizers, and some pain medications can intensify drowsiness.
• Other antihistamines – Taking other antihistamines together with Meclizine may increase your risk for side effects.
• Taking too much of it – Do not take more than the recommended dose unless advised by a healthcare provider.
• Other supplements and medication – When you’re taking Meclizine, it is important that you inform your healthcare provider of any other medications and supplements that you might be taking.

Those are just a few things to avoid while taking Meclizine, but be sure to consult with your healthcare provider for more specific guidelines.

How Long Does It Take for Meclizine to Work?

The exact amount of time for Meclizine to take effect varies from person to person. If you are taking it for motion sickness, it is best to take it an hour before travel as that will give the medication time to kick in.

For vertigo, it can take anywhere from 1-2 hours to kick in and provide relief. However, it is important to keep in mind that Meclizine is not a cure for vertigo and you may still experience some symptoms even after taking the medication.

What Is the Typical Dosage for Meclizine?

The typical dosage ranges between 25-100 mg per day, depending on what it is being used for and individual factors.

For motion sickness, the typical dosage is 25-50 mg taken an hour before the activity that triggers the motion sickness.

For a more accurate dosage, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider.

Can You Get Meclizine Over-The-Counter (OTC)?

Yes, Meclizine is available both over-the-counter and by prescription. Over-the-counter versions are commonly sold under brand names like Bonine and Dramamine Less Drowsy. They are intended for the prevention and treatment of motion sickness and are typically available in lower dosages, such as 25 mg.

Prescription versions are typically used for vertigo and other forms of dizziness treatment and are available in higher dosages.

For more detailed information about meclizine, you can refer to the following sources:

• Antivert (meclizine) prescription label, Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
• Meclizine, Drugs.com.
• Meclizine, MedlinePlus