Generic
Meclizine Hydrochloride
12 brands available in the market
At a glance
Meclizine Hydrochloride is an antihistamine used for nausea, vomiting, and vertigo associated with motion sickness. It blocks histamine action in the brain to control nausea, vomiting, and balance.
Description
Meclizine has antiemetic, anticholinergic, and antihistaminic properties. It reduces the sensitivity of the labyrinthine apparatus. The action may be mediated through nerve pathways to the vomiting center from the chemoreceptor trigger zone, peripheral nerve pathways, the vomiting center, or other CNS centers.
Indications
- Nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness
- Vertigo associated with diseases affecting the vestibular system
- Radiation sickness
- Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with emergency contraceptive pill (ECP)
Therapeutic class
Anti-emetic Drugs
Pharmacological class
Piperazine Antihistamine
Pharmacology
Meclizine reduces labyrinthine apparatus sensitivity and blocks vomiting signals through CTZ, VC, and other CNS centers.
Mechanism of action
Blocks histamine action in the brain to control nausea, vomiting, and balance.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Motion sickness: 25-50 mg, 1 hour before travel; repeat every 24 hours if needed
- Vertigo: 25-100 mg daily in divided doses; discontinue if no response after 1-2 weeks
- Radiation sickness: 50 mg, 2-12 hours prior to radiation treatment
Children (12 years+): 12.5-50 mg PO, 1 hour before travel; Vertigo: 25-100 mg/day
Administration
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- May be taken with or without food, but at a fixed time is preferable
- Take 1 hour before travel
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision (rare)
Precautions & warnings
- Caution when driving or doing activities requiring concentration (may cause drowsiness and dizziness)
- Avoid alcohol (may cause excessive drowsiness)
- Caution in asthma, glaucoma, or prostate enlargement
- Consult doctor during pregnancy and lactation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Meclizine Hydrochloride
Drug interactions
- Additive effects with CNS depressants, neuroleptics, anticholinergics, and alcohol
Food interactions
Alcohol may cause excessive drowsiness with Meclizine.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Meclizine is generally considered safe during pregnancy (Category B); animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Meclizine is probably safe during breastfeeding; limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby; larger doses or prolonged use may cause sleepiness in the baby.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 years; dose established for children 12 years+.
Geriatric use
Caution needed in elderly; paradoxical stimulation may occur at high doses.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause extreme excitability, seizures, drowsiness, and hallucinations; supportive and symptomatic treatment; consider dialysis.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from children.
Chemical structure
Meclizine Hydrochloride