Indications
- Meclizine is an antihistamine.
- It is used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
- Motion sickness is a common condition for which meclizine is prescribed.
- It can also address dizziness and balance loss (vertigo) linked to inner ear problems.
Dosage and administration
- Follow all directions on the product package.
- If prescribed by your doctor, take the medication as directed.
- Take the medication by mouth with or without food.
- For chewable tablets, chew thoroughly before swallowing.
- Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
- Do not increase the dose or take it more often than directed.
- To prevent motion sickness, take the first dose one hour before the activity.
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side effects
- Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and tiredness.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
- To alleviate dry mouth, consider using sugarless hard candy, ice chips, chewing gum, drinking water, or using a saliva substitute.
- Follow your doctor’s directions and remember the benefits of the medication outweigh potential side effects for most people.
- Report any serious side effects promptly, including mental/mood changes, fast/irregular heartbeat, shaking, or difficulty urinating.
- Seek immediate medical help for severe reactions such as seizures or a serious allergic reaction.
- While rare, a serious allergic reaction may manifest as a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- This list does not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any concerns.
Precautions
- Discuss allergies with your doctor or pharmacist before taking meclizine, as inactive ingredients may cause reactions.
- Provide your medical history, particularly mentioning breathing problems, high eye pressure, heart issues, high blood pressure, seizures, stomach/intestine problems, overactive thyroid, difficulty urinating, liver, or kidney problems.
- Meclizine may induce drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until alert. Refrain from alcohol or marijuana use, and discuss cannabis use with your doctor.
- Inform your doctor or dentist about all products used, including prescription and nonprescription drugs, and herbal products before surgery.
- Children may react differently to this drug, experiencing excitement instead of drowsiness.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, particularly drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty urinating, increasing the risk of falls.
- During pregnancy, use meclizine only if necessary, discussing potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It’s unclear if meclizine passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.