Dimenhydrinate

Dimenhydrinate Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Dimenhydrinate is a brand name. Its generic name is Dimenhydrinate.

Introduction

Dimenhydrinate is an antiemetic and antivertigo drug used for the prevention of nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It is also used to relieve motion sickness and the vertigo of Ménière’s disease. It is available as a generic drug and over-the-counter.

Uses

Dimenhydrinate is used to prevent and treat symptoms of motion sickness, vertigo, and nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiation, and other causes.

Mechanism of Action

Dimenhydrinate works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is involved in the transmission of signals from nerves to muscles. This blocking action causes a decrease in the activity of the muscles, which is thought to reduce symptoms of nausea,vertigo, and motion sickness.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Dimenhydrinate usually begins to work within 30 minutes. The full effect of the drug may take up to 2 hours to work.

Absorption

Dimenhydrinate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is rapidly metabolised in the liver and other tissues with an elimination half-life of about 3 hours.

Route of Elimination

Dimenhydrinate is metabolised in the liver and eliminated in the urine.

Dosage

The usual adult dosage is 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 400 mg per day. For children, the dosage is calculated by weight and age and should not exceed 2.5 mg/kg/dose and not more than 75 mg per day.

Administration

Dimenhydrinate is available in tablets, capsules, and as a liquid for oral administration.

Side Effect

The most common side effects of dimenhydrinate include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, headache, and constipation. More serious side effects such as confusion, fast/irregular heartbeat, agitation, and hallucinations have been reported.

Toxicity

An overdose of dimenhydrinate can cause serious side effects including agitation, convulsions, hallucinations, and coma. In addition, an overdose may cause rapid heartbeat, confusion, headache, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and delusions. A doctor should be consulted immediately if any of these symptoms occur.

Precaution

Dimenhydrinate should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, asthma, or urinary tract obstruction. It should be avoided during pregnancy, as it may cause a desired abortion.

Interaction

Dimenhydrinate may interact with several medications including anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antibiotics, diuretics, lithium, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. It is important to tell the doctor about all medications and supplements that are being taken prior to using dimenhydrinate.

Disease Interaction

Dimenhydrinate may cause side effects in patients with liver or renal impairment or in those with cardiovascular diseases. It may also increase the risk of seizures in patients with epilepsy or seizure disorders.

Drug Interaction

Consult with a doctor before taking dimenhydrinate if taking other drugs including anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, antibiotics, diuretics, lithium, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors as these drugs may interact with dimenhydrinate.

Food Interactions

Dimenhydrinate may interact with certain foods, such as orange juice, milk, and spicy foods. It is important to tell the doctor about any allergies or food sensitivities prior to taking dimenhydrinate.

Pregnancy Use

Dimenhydrinate should not be used during pregnancy. It may cause a desired abortion or harm to the fetus.

Lactation Use

It is not known whether dimenhydrinate is excreted in human milk, therefore, it is advised not to use this drug while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

An overdose of dimenhydrinate can cause serious side effects including agitation, convulsions, hallucinations, and coma. In addition, an overdose may cause rapid heartbeat, confusion, headache, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, and delusions. A doctor should be consulted immediately if any of these symptoms occur.

Contraindication

Dimenhydrinate should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should not be used in patients who are taking certain medications, such as MAO inhibitors, because of the potential for serious interactions.

Use Direction

Dimenhydrinate should be taken orally as directed by a doctor. It should not be taken in combination with other medications, such as alcohol or sedatives, as this could be dangerous. The dosage may vary depending on the patient, so it is important to follow the directions on the package closely.

Storage Condition

It is best to store dimenhydrinate in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of dimenhydrinate is 0.3 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of dimenhydrinate is 3 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of dimenhydrinate is 70 ml/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Dimenhydrinate

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Dimenhydrinate

What is Dimenhydrinate?

Dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine and anticholinergic medication used to treat allergies, to prevent and treat motion sickness, and to prevent nausea and vomiting from other medication.

What does Dimenhydrinate do?

Dimenhydrinate is used to treat allergies, to prevent and treat motion sickness, and to prevent nausea and vomiting from other medications. It works by blocking histamine receptors, decreasing the production of stomach acid, and slowing down the body’s transportation of signals from the central nervous system.

What is the most common use of Dimenhydrinate?

The most common use of dimenhydrinate is to prevent and treat motion sickness.

What are the side effects of Dimenhydrinate?

Common side effects of dimenhydrinate include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Serious side effects include blurred vision, confusion, fever, seizures, palpitations, muscle twitching, and difficulty breathing. If these side effects occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Who should not take Dimenhydrinate?

Individuals who are taking other medications, especially medications for asthma, should not take dimenhydrinate. In addition, people who have allergies or asthma, glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, an overactive thyroid, and an enlarged prostate should not take dimenhydrinate. Before taking dimenhydrinate, tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking.

How should Dimenhydrinate be taken?

Dimenhydrinate should be taken as directed by your doctor or according to the package instructions. The dose and frequency of dimenhydrinate depends on the condition being treated. Take dimenhydrinate with food or milk to avoid stomach upset. Store the medication in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat.

How long does it take for Dimenhydrinate to work?

It usually takes 30 minutes for dimenhydrinate to begin working. The effects may last up to 8 hours.

Is Dimenhydrinate a controlled substance?

No, dimenhydrinate is not a controlled substance.

Is Dimenhydrinate safe to take during pregnancy?

The use of dimenhydrinate during pregnancy has not been studied. It is not recommended to take dimenhydrinate during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.

Can Dimenhydrinate be taken with other medications?

Yes, dimenhydrinate can be taken with other medications. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking to ensure it is safe to take dimenhydrinate with them.

Does Dimenhydrinate interact with any foods or beverages?

No, dimenhydrinate does not interact with any foods or beverages.

How long does Dimenhydrinate stay in your system?

It usually takes about 3 to 6 hours for dimenhydrinate to be completely eliminated from the body.

What are the common dosages for Dimenhydrinate?

The common dosages of dimenhydrinate for adults are 50 mg taken every 4-6 hours, up to 300 mg per day. The common dose for children 12-17 years is 50 mg every 4-6 hours up to 150 mg per day.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Dimenhydrinate?

If you miss a dose of dimenhydrinate, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take extra doses to make up for the missed dose.

What are the overdose symptoms of Dimenhydrinate?

Overdose symptoms of dimenhydrinate can include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, difficulty breathing, confusion, and seizures.

What should I do if I think I have over-dosed with Dimenhydrinate?

If you think you have taken too much of dimenhydrinate, seek medical attention immediately. Bring the bottle with you to the hospital or clinic to help the healthcare provider determine how much dimenhydrinate you ingested.

How is Dimenhydrinate metabolized by the body?

Dimenhydrinate is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. It is broken down into several active metabolites, which can affect the body for up to 8 hours.

What storage conditions are recommended for Dimenhydrinate?

Dimenhydrinate tablets should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.

Does Dimenhydrinate help with allergies?

Yes, dimenhydrinate can be used to help relieve the symptoms of allergies. It works by blocking histamine receptors, which decreases the production of stomach acid and slows down the body’s transportation of signals from the central nervous system.

What is the half-life of Dimenhydrinate?

The half-life of dimenhydrinate is approximately 6-8 hours.

Is Dimenhydrinate considered a sedative?

No, dimenhydrinate is not considered a sedative. Although it can cause drowsiness, it is not a potent sedative.

How long should Dimenhydrinate be taken?

The length of time dimenhydrinate should be taken depends on the condition being treated. Consult your doctor for more information.

Does Dimenhydrinate interact with other medications?

Yes, dimenhydrinate may interact with other medications. Make sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking to make sure it is safe to take dimenhydrinate with them.

Do I need a prescription to purchase Dimenhydrinate?

No, you do not need a prescription to purchase dimenhydrinate. However, please consult your doctor before taking dimenhydrinate to make sure it is safe for you.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Dimenhydrinate?

No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking dimenhydrinate, as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Should I take Dimenhydrinate with food?

Yes, it is recommended to take dimenhydrinate with food to avoid stomach upset.

What is the recommended daily dose for Dimenhydrinate?

The recommended daily dose of dimenhydrinate for adults is 300 mg per day. For children 12-17 years, the recommended daily dose is 150 mg per day.

Is Dimenhydrinate available in generic form?

Yes, dimenhydrinate is available in generic form.

Is Dimenhydrinate safe for children?

Yes, dimenhydrinate is safe for children 12 and older. Follow the dosage instructions for children, as it is different from the dosage instructions for adults.

Does Dimenhydrinate interact with herbal remedies?

Yes, dimenhydrinate may interact with some herbal remedies. Before taking dimenhydrinate, tell your doctor about any herbal remedies you are taking.

Can Dimenhydrinate be taken for motion sickness?

Yes, dimenhydrinate can be taken to treat and prevent motion sickness.

What are the long-term effects of taking Dimenhydrinate?

Long-term effects of taking dimenhydrinate have not been studied. Common long-term side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

Can Dimenhydrinate be taken for nausea and vomiting caused by other medications?

Yes, dimenhydrinate can be taken to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by other medications.

Can Dimenhydrinate be taken long-term?

The long-term effects of taking dimenhydrinate have not been studied. Speak with your doctor to determine if long-term use is appropriate for you.

Can Dimenhydrinate make me sleepy?

Yes, dimenhydrinate can cause drowsiness. It is important to not perform activities that require alertness, such as operating machinery or driving a car.

Is Dimenhydrinate addictive?

No, dimenhydrinate is not considered to be addictive. However, misuse or abuse of the medication may lead to physical dependence.

Is Dimenhydrinate safe for patients with kidney disease?

People with kidney disease should not take dimenhydrinate. Talk to your doctor about other treatment options for motion sickness, allergies, and nausea/vomiting.