Do you feel dizzy while traveling? Let's learn exactly about the Dimenhydrinate pill.

You are probably familiar with this experience. As soon as you board the van or bus, thinking of going on a trip or pilgrimage somewhere, you start to feel dizzy and your stomach churning. Some people even feel nauseous. To be precise, you get tired of the journey. We call this condition 'Motion Sickness'. A medicine that many people know and use at times like this is the pill Dramamine. In this article, we will talk about this Dramamine, or the medicine Dimenhydrinate that it contains, in simple terms.

What is Dimenhydrinate?

Simply put, Dimenhydrinate is a medication that is used to prevent and treat symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It works by affecting the parts of our body that control our balance. It belongs to a class of drugs called antihistamines. When you ask for Dramamine at the pharmacy, you get a pill containing Dimenhydrinate.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

This is very important. If you have any of the following medical conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor before taking Dimenhydrinate. This is because using this medication with certain medical conditions can be dangerous.

• Glaucoma, an eye disease
• Any type of heart disease
• Liver diseases
• Lung diseases such as asthma or emphysema
• Pain or discomfort when urinating
• Prostate problems
• Seizures
• The genetic condition Phenylketonuria (PKU)
• The disease called Porphyria
• If you have allergies to medications like Dimenhydrinate, Diphenhydramine, artificial colorings like Tartrazine, or anything else
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• If you are a breastfeeding mother

How exactly do you use this pill?

This is a chewable tablet. You can chew the tablet or swallow it whole with a glass of water. To prevent motion sickness, it is best to take this medicine 30 minutes to an hour before you start your journey .

Take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time. Never take more than the amount prescribed by your doctor.

When given to children and the elderly

Doctors sometimes prescribe this medicine for children (over 2 years of age). But it should only be done on medical advice. The doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for the child's weight and age.

Also, if someone over the age of 65 is taking this medication, they may experience the effects (especially drowsiness) a little more severely. Therefore, they are usually prescribed a lower dose.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.

What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)

This is an emergency. If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, or if you suspect that a child has taken too much of this medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Delaying this can be dangerous.

Other things that may interact with this medicine

Dimenhydrinate can interact with some other things you may be taking, so be aware of these things:

• Alcohol: Taking this medication with alcohol can cause severe drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, avoid alcohol completely while taking this medication.
• Medications called MAOIs: These are a special type of medication usually given for mental illnesses such as depression.
• Other medicines for colds, coughs, and allergies: Many of these medicines also contain ingredients that cause drowsiness, so taking them with Dimenhydrinate may increase drowsiness.
• Other medications that cause drowsiness: things like painkillers and tranquilizers.

Be aware of these things when taking medication.

You may experience some minor changes while taking this medicine. Most of them are not dangerous.

• Drowsiness and dizziness: This is the main and most common side effect. Therefore, never drive, operate heavy machinery, or do anything that requires a lot of attention while taking this medicine. Be careful when getting up from a sitting position or sitting down suddenly.
• Dry mouth: If you feel like your mouth is dry, chew sugar-free gum, suck on a candy, or drink small amounts of water frequently.
• Dry eyes and blurred vision: Some people may experience dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses, this may be uncomfortable. Using lubricating drops can help reduce this. However, if the problem persists, talk to your doctor.

How do you store medicine?

Keep these pills out of the reach of children. It is best to store them at room temperature (between 15-25 degrees Celsius). Discard any expired medication.

Dimenhydrinate, Dramamine, Motion Sickness, Travel Sickness, Vomiting, Dizziness, Medicine