Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or motion, or feeling as though your surroundings are whirling around you. It is a specific type of dizziness that can range from barely noticeable to severe, sometimes making it difficult to maintain balance or perform daily activities. This article explores common over-the-counter (OTC) options that may provide temporary relief for vertigo symptoms.
What is Vertigo?
Vertigo is a distinct sensation of movement, such as spinning, tilting, or swaying, that differs from general lightheadedness or feeling faint. This sensation can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or difficulties with walking.
Vertigo often arises from issues within the inner ear or the brain. The inner ear contains a system that helps control balance by sending signals to the brain about head and body movements. Common inner ear conditions that can cause vertigo include Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), where tiny calcium crystals become dislodged, Meniere’s disease, labyrinthitis, and vestibular neuritis. Vertigo can also be a symptom of motion sickness.
Common Over-the-Counter Medications
Several over-the-counter medications can help manage vertigo symptoms, primarily by addressing associated nausea and dizziness. These often include antihistamines that affect the inner ear and brain. Two common options are meclizine and dimenhydrinate.
Meclizine is an antihistamine that works by blocking signals to the brain that cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It influences the central nervous system to reduce vestibular stimulation, helping control the spinning sensation and nausea. Meclizine is available under brand names like Antivert, Bonine, and Dramamine Less Drowsy. For adults, typical dosages for vertigo range from 25 to 100 milligrams per day, often taken in divided doses.
Dimenhydrinate is another antihistamine commonly used to prevent and treat motion sickness. It helps reduce nausea, vomiting, and dizziness by acting on the brain’s vomiting center. Dimenhydrinate is known by the brand name Dramamine. For adults, typical oral dosages are 50 to 100 milligrams every four to six hours, not exceeding 400 milligrams in 24 hours.
Important Considerations for OTC Use
Using OTC medications for vertigo requires attention to potential side effects and interactions. Both meclizine and dimenhydrinate can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision. Drowsiness can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery; understand how these medications affect you before engaging in such activities.
These medications can also interact with other substances. Alcohol and other central nervous system depressants, such as sedatives, tranquilizers, or certain pain medications, can increase drowsiness. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. Individuals with conditions like glaucoma or prostate issues should consult a healthcare professional before using these medications due to their anticholinergic effects. Always read the product label for specific dosage instructions and warnings.
When to Consult a Doctor
While OTC medications offer temporary relief for mild vertigo, know when professional medical advice is necessary. Vertigo is a symptom of an underlying condition; self-treatment is often not sufficient for resolution or addressing the root cause.
Consult a doctor if your vertigo is persistent, worsening, or significantly affecting your daily life. Seek immediate medical attention if vertigo is accompanied by new or severe headaches, vision changes like double vision, hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or difficulty speaking. Other concerning symptoms include weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arms or legs, or if vertigo occurs after a head injury. These symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying issue requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.