Dramamine - Dimenhydrinate

What is it?

Composition

Dramamine contains the active ingredient dimenhydrinate, which is the basis of its antihistamine and antiemetic action. Dimenhydrinate has the ability to reduce the activity of the vestibular apparatus, which helps prevent or reduce the symptoms of motion sickness.

In addition to the active ingredient, Dramamine also contains excipients that ensure the form and stability of the drug:

• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Magnesium stearate
• Talc
• Colloidal silica

How to use?

To achieve the best effect when taking Dramamine, it is important to follow the dosage and timing recommendations. The drug should be taken 30-60 minutes before the expected trip or exposure to other factors that can cause motion sickness. This will allow the active substance to start working in time and prevent the onset of symptoms.

Recommended dosage for adults and children over 12 years:

1. Take one tablet (50 mg) every 4-6 hours as needed.
2. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 400 mg (8 tablets).
3. For children aged 2 to 12 years, the dosage is reduced, usually 25 mg every 6-8 hours, no more than 150 mg per day.

The tablets should be taken with a small amount of water, without chewing.

How does it work?

Dramamine works thanks to the active substance dimenhydrinate, which is an antihistamine with a sedative effect. Dimenhydrinate blocks the action of histamine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in transmitting signals from the vestibular apparatus to the brain. It is these signals that cause the feeling of nausea, dizziness and vomiting during motion sickness.

The drug reduces the activity of the vestibular system, which reduces sensitivity to movement. As a result, the body stops reacting so sharply to changes in body position associated with travel by transport or other external influences that cause discomfort. Thanks to this, Dramamine effectively prevents motion sickness symptoms, making trips more comfortable.

Indications

Dramamine is recommended for use in various situations associated with the risk of motion sickness and dizziness. The drug helps prevent and alleviate unpleasant conditions associated with dysfunction of the vestibular apparatus. The main indications for use include:

• Prevention and treatment of motion sickness symptoms (seasickness, motion sickness in a car, airplane and other types of transport)
• Symptomatic treatment of dizziness caused by inner ear disorders
• Relief of vestibular disorders accompanied by nausea and vomiting

Contraindications

Despite its effectiveness, Dramamine is not suitable for all patients and has a number of contraindications that should be taken into account before starting to take it. It is important to familiarize yourself with them in order to avoid possible complications and side effects. The main contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to dimenhydrinate or other components of the drug
• Children under 2 years of age
• Pregnancy (especially in the first trimester) and breastfeeding
• Severe asthma, epilepsy, closed-angle glaucoma
• Chronic heart disease, such as coronary heart disease

If you have these conditions, it is recommended to consult a doctor before using Dramamine.

Side effects

Although Dramamine is generally well tolerated, some people may experience side effects, especially if the recommended dosage is exceeded. The most common side effects are related to the antihistamine effect of the drug and may include:

• Drowsiness and general weakness
• Dry mouth
• Difficulty urinating
• Headaches or dizziness
• Loss of coordination

In rare cases, more serious side effects are possible, such as allergic reactions or a significant drop in blood pressure. If you notice any alarming symptoms after taking Dramamine, it is recommended to consult a doctor.