Meclizine is an antihistamine commonly used to prevent and treat motion sickness symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It also treats vertigo, a sensation of spinning or imbalance often stemming from inner ear conditions. This medication works by affecting brain signals that contribute to these uncomfortable sensations.
Recommended Meclizine Dosage
Meclizine dosages vary depending on the condition being addressed. For preventing motion sickness, adults typically take between 25 and 50 milligrams (mg) approximately one hour before travel. This initial dose can be repeated once every 24 hours while travel continues if needed. The maximum recommended daily dose for motion sickness is 50 mg.
When managing vertigo, the standard adult dosage ranges from 25 to 100 mg per day. This daily amount is generally divided into multiple smaller doses rather than taken all at once. The specific dosage for vertigo depends on the individual’s response to the medication. Children 12 years of age and older can typically follow similar adult dosages for motion sickness.
Proper Administration Guidelines
For motion sickness, take meclizine about one hour before travel. It can be taken with or without food, as absorption is not typically affected by meals.
If using chewable tablets, chew or crush them thoroughly before swallowing; non-chewable tablets should be swallowed whole. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it’s almost time for the next dose; then skip the missed dose. Do not double doses. Elderly individuals may require lower dosages due to increased susceptibility to side effects. Meclizine is not generally recommended for children under 12 unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Safety Considerations and Overdose
Meclizine can cause certain side effects, with drowsiness and dry mouth being common. Other reported effects may include headache, fatigue, or blurred vision. Due to the potential for drowsiness, individuals taking meclizine should avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until they understand how the medication affects them.
Use meclizine with caution if you have pre-existing conditions like asthma, glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate, as its anticholinergic properties could worsen them. Combining meclizine with alcohol or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., sedatives, tranquilizers, certain pain medications) can intensify drowsiness and other sedative effects. Consult a healthcare provider about all medications and supplements to avoid potential interactions.
An overdose of meclizine can lead to more severe symptoms. These may include extreme drowsiness, profound sedation, seizures, hallucinations (especially in children), and an irregular heart rhythm. In older adults, low blood pressure and coma are also possible. If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention is necessary. Contacting a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or calling 911 for emergency services is crucial. Treatment for overdose is primarily supportive, focusing on managing symptoms, and may involve measures to prevent further absorption if the ingestion was recent.