We all love to travel, right? A trip to Nuwara Eliya, a pilgrimage to Kataragama, or a long trip to a relative’s house… But for some, these trips are boring because they start to feel dizzy and nauseous as soon as they board the bus or van. We also call this “ motion sickness . ” So, today we are going to talk about the medicine syrup called Dimenhydrinate, which is often recommended by doctors for this condition and which you may have seen in pharmacies under names like Avomine.
What is Dimenhydrinate?
Simply put, Dimenhydrinate is a type of antihistamine . It is mainly used to prevent and treat symptoms such as nausea, vomiting , and dizziness that occur during travel. Sometimes a doctor may prescribe this medication for other medical conditions as well. So if you have any questions about this, it is best to ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before giving you this medicine. If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor before taking this medicine.
| Health condition or opportunity | Description |
|---|---|
| Eye diseases | Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure in the eye increases. |
| Heart disease | Any type of heart disease. |
| Liver diseases | Any liver-related condition. |
| Respiratory diseases | Lung or breathing problems, such as asthma or emphysema. |
| Difficulty urinating | Pain, difficulty urinating, or prostate problems. |
| Other medical conditions | Conditions such as Phenylketonuria, Porphyria, or Seizures. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to this medicine (Dimenhydrinate), Diphenhydramine, foods, preservatives, or other medicines. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
When using this medicine, you must follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
- Correct measurement: Use the special measuring cup or spoon that comes with the medicine to measure it. Measuring with household teaspoons is not accurate.
- Before traveling: To prevent motion sickness, take this medicine 30 minutes to an hour before departure .
- On time: Take your medicine at the prescribed intervals, as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than the prescribed amount.
When given to young children and the elderly
Talk to your pediatrician about giving this medicine to children. Although it is sometimes recommended for children as young as 2 years old, there are some special considerations to be made. Also, if someone over the age of 65 is using this medicine, they may feel the effects of the medicine more strongly and may need a lower dose.
What to do if the medication dose is increased?
If you have the slightest suspicion that you have taken too much of this medicine, don't take it lightly.
There are two things you need to do immediately. One is to go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. The other is to call the National Poison Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
And remember, this medicine is for you only. Never share it with anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
When taking this medicine, its effects may change with other things you use. Be especially careful with these things:
- Alcohol
- Some antidepressants, such as MAOIs (e.g., Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate)
- Some medications taken for allergies, colds , or coughs
- Other medications that make you sleepy
Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins and traditional medicines), and whether you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- Dry mouth : Your mouth may feel dry. Chewing sugar-free gum, eating a soft toffee, and drinking plenty of water can help.
- Effects on the eyes: Dry eyes and blurred vision may occur. If you wear contact lenses, you may experience discomfort. Using lubricating drops may provide relief.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: This is the most important thing.
You may feel very sleepy or dizzy . Therefore , avoid driving, operating machinery, and doing anything that requires alertness until you know exactly how this medicine affects you. Avoid getting up or sitting down suddenly, especially if you are elderly, to avoid dizziness or fainting.
Avoid alcohol completely while taking the medication, as drinking alcohol can increase this drowsiness.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Other serious symptoms |
|
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| |
How do you store the medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius).
- Never put it in the freezer.
- Discard after expiration.
Take-Home Message
- Dimenhydrinate is a medication mainly used to treat vomiting and motion sickness that occurs during travel.
- For best results, take the medicine 30-60 minutes before traveling.
- This medicine may cause severe drowsiness . Therefore, avoid driving or performing tasks that require alertness.
- Always tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and any other medications you are taking.
- Use the measuring device that comes with the medicine to measure it. Never give someone else a medicine that was prescribed for you.
Dimenhydrinate, Avomine, motion sickness, motion sickness, vomiting, dizziness, antihistamine
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