MECLIZINE

'Meclizine' (proposed INN is 'meclozine') is an antihistamine, considered to be an antiemetic. It is most commonly used to inhibit nausea and vomiting. An alternative to dimenhydrinates like Dramamine, Meclizine is considered to perform the same functions at an equitable level of effectiveness, but with reduced side effects.

Contents

Uses

Motion sickness

Vertigo

Risks of use

Drowsiness

Pregnancy

Anticholinergics

Commercial names

External links

Uses

Motion sickness

Meclizine is effective in inhibiting the symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

Vertigo

Meclizine may be effective in relieving vertigo experienced as a result of inner ear infections or other conditions.

Risks of use

Drowsiness

Drowsiness may result as a side effect of taking Meclizine. While the effects are less than dimenhydrinate, users are advised not to operate heavy machinery while under the influence. The consumption of alcohol while under the influence of Meclizine may result in additional drowsiness.

Pregnancy

Meclizine is classified as Pregnancy Category B by the FDA.
Category B:
Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the
fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant
women.
Studies have shown that cleft palates of fetuses were formed when pregnant rats were exposed to 25-50 times a normal dosage. Thus, pregnant women are advised not to take Meclizine unless it is absolutely necessary.

Anticholinergics

Due to its possible anticholinergic action, Meclizine should be used carefully with patients who suffer from asthma, glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate gland.

Commercial names

Meclizine hydrochloride is sold under the commercial names

★ Dramamine II®

★ Dramamine Less Drowsy®

★ Antivert®

★ Bonine®

★ Bonamine®

★ Bonikraft®

★ Emetostop®

★ Medivert®

★ Sea-Legs®

★ Agyrax®

★ Postafen® (Sweden)

External links

★ [1] – University of Berlin's Institute of Biochemistry

★ [2] – Numark Pharmacies Information Page on Meclizine

★ [3] Rxlist Medical Dictionary