Health Library

Meclizine (By mouth)

Meclizine (MEK-li-zeen)

Treats vertigo and symptoms of motion sickness.

Brand Name(s):

Antivert, Dramamine, Foster&Thrive Motion Sickness, Good Neighbor Motion Sickness Relief, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Motion Sickness Relief, Good Sense Motion Sickness II, Leader Motion Sickness Relief, Medi-Meclizine, Motion Relief, Motion Sickness, Motion Sickness Relief, Motion-Time, Quality Choice Travel Ease, Travel Sickness, Travel-Ease

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet, Chewable Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Chewable tablet: Chew or crush the tablet completely before swallowing. Do not swallow chewable tablets whole.
• Non-chewable tablet: Swallow the non-chewable tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Motion sickness: Take this medicine at least 1 hour before travel if you are using it to prevent motion sickness. One dose of this medicine should prevent motion sickness for 24 hours.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose. If you use this medicine for motion sickness, take it only as needed.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.
• Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, enlarged prostate, glaucoma, heart failure, or trouble urinating.
• This medicine may make you drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Headache

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024