Dimenhydrinate

Dimenhydrinate is used by adults and children who are at least 2 years old to treat or prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness.

Dimenhydrinate may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use this medicine in larger amounts or more often than directed.

For best results, take dimenhydrinate 30 to 60 minutes before traveling or before any activity that may trigger motion sickness.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Follow all directions on the label and package.

You should not use dimenhydrinate if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if dimenhydrinate is safe to use if you have or have ever had:

• an enlarged prostate or problems with urination;
• breathing problems like emphysema or chronic bronchitis;
• glaucoma; or
• if you have recently used alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers.

The chewable tablet of dimenhydrinate may contain phenylalanine. Tell your doctor before taking it if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives, trouble breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Dimenhydrinate can cause serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• severe drowsiness;
• wheezing, difficulty breathing, severe or worsening cough;
• blurred vision, eye pain or redness, seeing halos around lights; or
• painful or difficult urination.

You may be more likely to experience less serious side effects, or you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may happen. Reach out to your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Dimenhydrinate is used as needed. If you are following a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

• Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how dimenhydrinate will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

• Avoid drinking alcohol. Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of dimenhydrinate.

Using dimenhydrinate with other drugs that cause drowsiness can make you feel even more tired. Ask your doctor before taking opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, sedative, tranquilizer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.

Other drugs may interact with dimenhydrinate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.