Dramamine II

 
Generic Name: meclizine

Brands: Antivert, Bonine, Dramamine II, Driminate II

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What is the most important information I should know about Dramamine II?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dramamine II may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.

· Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Dramamine II.

 

What is Dramamine II?

· Dramamine II is an antihistamine. It blocks the effects of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in your body.

· Dramamine II is used to treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. Dramamine II may also be helpful in treating vertigo.

· Dramamine II may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Dramamine II?

· Before taking Dramamine II, tell your doctor if you have     ·asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another lung disease;     ·glaucoma;     ·difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate gland; or     ·severe or chronic constipation.

· You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· Dramamine II is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Dramamine II without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is not known whether Dramamine II passes into breast milk. Do not take Dramamine II without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· Dramamine II is not approved for use by children younger than 12 years of age.

 

How should I take Dramamine II?

· Take Dramamine II exactly as directed by your doctor or follow the directions that accompany the package. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Take each dose with a full glass of water.

· The Bonine chewable tablets may be swallowed whole, crushed, or chewed.

· For motion sickness, Dramamine II is usually taken about 1 hour before travel. The dose may be repeated once a day after that for the duration of the journey if necessary.

· For vertigo, doses may be taken several times a day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

· Store Dramamine II at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Since Dramamine II is usually taken as needed, missing a dose is usually not a problem. If you are taking Dramamine II on a regular schedule and you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention.

· Symptoms of a Dramamine II overdose include extreme drowsiness, seizures, hallucinations, and decreased breathing.

 

What should I avoid while taking Dramamine II?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Dramamine II may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.

· Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Dramamine II.

 

What are the possible side effects of Dramamine II?

· Stop taking Dramamine II and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Dramamine II and talk to your doctor if you experience     ·drowsiness or dizziness;     ·a dry mouth (may be relieved by sugarless gum, ice chips, saliva substitutes, or other products if bothersome);     ·blurred vision;     ·nervousness;     ·insomnia; or     ·constipation.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

 

What other drugs will affect Dramamine II?

· Dramamine II may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.

· Dramamine II may affect skin allergy tests. Tell your doctor that you are taking this medication if you need to undergo allergy testing.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Dramamine II. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has more information about Dramamine II written for health professionals that you may read.