Is dramamine drowsy. Motion Sickness Prevention: Expert Insights on Dramamine, Ginger, and Alternative Remedies
How does motion sickness affect travelers. What are the most effective treatments for motion sickness. Can natural remedies like ginger provide relief from nausea during travel. Are there any side effects associated with motion sickness medications. How can passengers prevent motion sickness on different modes of transportation.
Understanding Motion Sickness: Causes and Prevalence
Motion sickness is a common condition that affects a significant portion of the population. According to a 2019 study, nearly everyone has experienced or will experience motion sickness at some point in their lives. This widespread issue can significantly impact travel experiences and quality of life for many individuals.
Dr. Natascha Tuznik, an infectious disease specialist at the UC Davis Health Traveler’s Clinic, provides valuable insights into the nature of motion sickness and its prevalence among different demographics.
Where Does Motion Sickness Commonly Occur?
Motion sickness can occur in various travel scenarios, but some environments are more likely to trigger symptoms than others:
- Seasickness is the most common form of motion sickness
- Car, bus, and plane travel can also induce motion sickness
- A survey of 3,200 bus passengers found that 28% felt ill, 13% reported nausea, and 2% vomited
- Another study revealed that 24% of commercial airline passengers experienced illness or nausea
Who is Most Susceptible to Motion Sickness?
While motion sickness can affect anyone, certain groups are more prone to experiencing symptoms:
- Women are generally more susceptible than men
- Children around the age of 9 are more prone, while those under 2 are typically resistant
- Individuals with a history of migraines
- Pregnant women due to hormonal changes
- Those with a genetic predisposition
- People who anticipate getting sick are more likely to experience symptoms
Dramamine: Effectiveness and Side Effects
Dramamine, also known by its generic name dimenhydrinate, is a popular over-the-counter medication used to combat motion sickness. While it can be effective in reducing symptoms, it’s important to understand its potential side effects and limitations.
How Effective is Dramamine for Motion Sickness?
Dramamine has shown some effectiveness in reducing motion sickness symptoms. However, as an antihistamine, it comes with potential side effects that users should be aware of:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Decreased mental alertness
Interestingly, some individuals may experience opposite effects, such as:
- Insomnia
- Excitability
- Restlessness
Unfortunately, there’s little that can be done to mitigate these side effects. If you’ve taken Dramamine before, you can generally expect similar side effects with subsequent use.
Who Should Avoid Taking Dramamine?
Certain medical conditions may contraindicate the use of Dramamine. Individuals with the following conditions should consult their physician before using this medication:
- Glaucoma
- Liver impairment
- Asthma
- Seizure disorders
- Prostate enlargement or urinary blockage
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Cardiovascular disease
Alternative Medications for Motion Sickness
While Dramamine is a popular choice, there are other medication options available for those seeking relief from motion sickness symptoms.
Bonine (Meclizine)
Bonine, which contains the active ingredient meclizine, is marketed as a “less drowsy” alternative to Dramamine. The primary difference lies in the dosing schedule:
- Bonine is taken once daily
- Dramamine is taken every four to six hours as needed
Despite the convenience of Bonine’s dosing schedule, studies suggest that Dramamine may be more effective overall in preventing motion sickness symptoms.
Scopolamine
Scopolamine is another option for motion sickness prevention. It’s commonly available as a transdermal patch applied behind the ear. This medication offers an alternative for those who may not tolerate or prefer oral medications.
Ineffective Antihistamines
It’s worth noting that non-sedating antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Claritin, and Allegra do not appear to be effective for motion sickness prevention or treatment.
Motion Sickness in Children and Pets
Motion sickness doesn’t just affect adults; children and even our furry companions can experience discomfort during travel. Understanding how to manage these symptoms in younger passengers and pets is crucial for a smooth journey.
Managing Motion Sickness in Children
While children under 2 typically don’t experience motion sickness, the incidence peaks around age 9. When considering medication for children:
- Always consult with a pediatrician before administering any medication
- Most pediatric medications are weight-based
- Some medications may have age restrictions
- Never guess dosages without medical advice
Addressing Motion Sickness in Pets
Our four-legged friends can also suffer from motion sickness during travel. Here are some options for managing pet motion sickness:
- Cerenia (maropitant) is a prescription medication available for dogs
- Dramamine may be used for pets, but dosing is weight-based
- Always consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication to pets
Natural Remedies and Prevention Strategies
While medications can be effective, many travelers prefer to explore natural remedies and preventive measures to combat motion sickness. These strategies can be used alone or in conjunction with medication for enhanced relief.
Ginger: Nature’s Anti-Nausea Solution
Ginger has long been recognized for its anti-nausea properties. Scientific studies have shown that ginger can be as effective as some over-the-counter medications in reducing motion sickness symptoms. Ways to incorporate ginger include:
- Ginger tea
- Ginger capsules
- Candied ginger
- Ginger ale (ensure it contains real ginger)
Environmental Strategies
Simple adjustments to your environment and behavior can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness:
- Focus on the horizon or a stationary object when traveling by sea
- Avoid reading during motion
- Choose seating wisely: lower levels on boats, front seats in cars
- Ensure proper ventilation
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid heavy meals before and during travel
Acupressure and Wristbands
Some travelers find relief through acupressure techniques or wristbands that apply pressure to the P6 (Nei Kuan) point on the inner wrist. While scientific evidence is mixed, many individuals report positive results from these methods.
Timing and Preparation: Keys to Effective Motion Sickness Management
Proper timing and preparation can make a significant difference in managing motion sickness symptoms. Understanding when to take medication and how to prepare for your journey can enhance the effectiveness of your chosen treatment method.
When Should You Take Motion Sickness Medication?
For those with a history of severe motion sickness, timing is crucial:
- Take medication approximately one hour before your trip begins
- This allows the medication to reach effective levels in your system before exposure to motion
- Follow dosing instructions carefully, especially for medications that require multiple doses throughout the day
Preparing for Your Journey
In addition to medication, consider these preparatory steps:
- Get a good night’s sleep before travel
- Eat a light meal before departing
- Pack motion sickness remedies in an easily accessible location
- Choose appropriate seating in advance when possible
- Bring distractions like music or audiobooks to help focus your attention away from motion
Understanding the Science Behind Motion Sickness
To better manage motion sickness, it’s helpful to understand the underlying mechanisms that cause this condition. This knowledge can inform more effective prevention and treatment strategies.
The Sensory Conflict Theory
The most widely accepted explanation for motion sickness is the sensory conflict theory. This theory posits that motion sickness occurs when there’s a mismatch between visual information and the vestibular system’s sense of movement:
- The inner ear detects motion that the eyes don’t see (e.g., being below deck on a ship)
- The eyes perceive motion that the vestibular system doesn’t detect (e.g., watching a moving scene while stationary)
This sensory conflict can lead to the common symptoms of motion sickness, including nausea, dizziness, and general discomfort.
The Role of Neurotransmitters
Motion sickness involves complex interactions between various neurotransmitters in the brain, including:
- Histamine
- Acetylcholine
- Norepinephrine
Understanding these neurotransmitter interactions helps explain why certain medications, such as antihistamines and anticholinergics, can be effective in treating motion sickness symptoms.
Emerging Technologies and Future Treatments
As our understanding of motion sickness grows, new technologies and treatment approaches are being developed to provide more effective relief with fewer side effects.
Virtual Reality and Motion Sickness
The increasing popularity of virtual reality (VR) has brought renewed attention to motion sickness issues. Researchers are exploring ways to reduce VR-induced motion sickness through:
- Improved hardware that reduces latency and increases frame rates
- Software solutions that manipulate visual cues to reduce sensory conflict
- Adaptation techniques to help users build tolerance to VR environments
These advancements may also inform new approaches to managing traditional forms of motion sickness.
Neurostimulation Techniques
Emerging research is exploring the potential of neurostimulation techniques to prevent or treat motion sickness:
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) applied to specific acupoints
- Galvanic vestibular stimulation to modulate the vestibular system’s response to motion
- Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques to alter neural activity associated with motion sickness
While many of these approaches are still in the experimental stage, they offer promising avenues for future motion sickness management.
Personalized Medicine Approaches
As genetic factors play a role in motion sickness susceptibility, future treatments may involve personalized medicine approaches:
- Genetic testing to identify individuals at higher risk for motion sickness
- Tailored prevention and treatment strategies based on genetic profiles
- Development of targeted therapies that address individual susceptibilities
These personalized approaches could lead to more effective and efficient motion sickness management for individuals.
The Impact of Motion Sickness on Society and Economy
Motion sickness is not just a personal inconvenience; it can have broader implications for society and the economy, particularly in the context of travel and transportation industries.
Economic Considerations
The prevalence of motion sickness can have significant economic impacts:
- Reduced productivity for business travelers affected by symptoms
- Potential loss of revenue for travel and tourism industries due to avoidance of certain modes of transportation
- Increased healthcare costs associated with treating motion sickness and related conditions
- Investment in research and development of new treatments and prevention strategies
Societal Implications
Motion sickness can affect various aspects of society:
- Limitations on career choices for individuals prone to motion sickness (e.g., pilots, sailors)
- Impact on military readiness and performance in motion-intensive environments
- Influence on transportation policy and design to accommodate motion-sensitive individuals
- Potential effects on adoption of new technologies like autonomous vehicles and virtual reality
Understanding these broader implications underscores the importance of continued research and development in motion sickness prevention and treatment.
Integrating Motion Sickness Management into Travel Planning
Effective management of motion sickness often requires a holistic approach that integrates prevention and treatment strategies into overall travel planning. By considering motion sickness from the outset, travelers can minimize its impact on their journeys.
Pre-Travel Considerations
Before embarking on a trip, consider the following steps to manage motion sickness:
- Consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the best prevention and treatment options for your specific needs
- Research your mode of transportation and choose options that may reduce motion sickness (e.g., larger ships for sea travel, non-stop flights for air travel)
- Plan your itinerary to include rest stops or breaks if traveling by car or bus
- Pack a “motion sickness kit” including medication, ginger products, and any other preferred remedies
During Travel Strategies
Once your journey begins, implement these strategies to minimize motion sickness:
- Stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol
- Eat light, easily digestible meals
- Use visual fixation techniques (focusing on the horizon or a stable point)
- Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
- Adjust your environment when possible (e.g., opening a window for fresh air, adjusting temperature)
Post-Travel Recovery
For some individuals, motion sickness symptoms may persist after the journey has ended. Consider these post-travel recovery strategies:
- Allow time for readjustment, especially after long trips or sea voyages
- Continue to stay hydrated and eat light meals
- Get plenty of rest to help your body recover
- Engage in light exercise or walks to help regain your sense of balance
By integrating these considerations into your travel planning, you can create a more comprehensive approach to managing motion sickness and ensuring a more enjoyable travel experience.
An expert weighs in on Dramamine, ginger and more
Internal MedicineJuly 30, 2021
(SACRAMENTO)
Pent-up desires to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic have led to summer surges among vacation hot spots, hotels and airports. Since vaccines rolled out nationally this spring, many airlines have reported increased demand and that trend is only expected to continue.
Studies show that motion sickness will affect most people at some point in their lives.
Travel seems to be on most of our minds. What may also come to mind is motion sickness for those who suffer from it, which is almost everybody at some point.
“A study conducted in 2019 found that almost everyone has experienced or will experience motion sickness at some point in their lifetime,” said Natascha Tuznik, an infectious disease doctor with the UC Davis Health Traveler’s Clinic.
Tuznik answers some common questions about motion sickness and ways to prevent or treat it.
Where is motion sickness most likely to happen?
This depends upon specific conditions encountered. Seasickness is the most common form. A fun fact is that the word nausea is derived from the Greek word “naus” which means ship. Nausea literally means “ship-sickness.” But it can happen to people traveling by car, bus and plane, too.
In one survey of roughly 3,200 bus passengers, 28% felt ill, 13% reported nausea and 2% vomited. Another study highlighted motion sickness experienced by passengers on commercial airline flights, finding that 24% felt ill or nauseated.
Who’s most likely to get motion sickness?
Women are more susceptible than men. Children under the age of 2 are typically resistant to motion sickness, while those around the age of 9 are more prone. Other factors that tend to lead to motion sickness include a history of migraines, hormonal changes (pregnant women, for example), genetics and even mindset. Often, those who expect to get sick are the ones who do.
Does Dramamine work for motion sickness?
Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) is a popular go-to remedy. It is somewhat effective at reducing motion sickness symptoms, but it is an antihistamine. Like all antihistamines, it may cause drowsiness, dizziness and decreased mental alertness. Some people may experience the exact opposite effects, including insomnia, excitability and restlessness. Unfortunately, not much can be done to mitigate the side effects. If you’ve taken it before, you should expect similar side effects each time.
Who should not take Dramamine?
Natascha Tuznik is an infectious disease physician with UC Davis Health’s Traveler’s Clinic.
Patients with a history of glaucoma, liver impairment, asthma, seizures, prostate enlargements or urinary blockage, thyroid dysfunction and cardiovascular disease should proceed with caution and speak with their physician first.
Does it help to take the medicine before you start traveling?
If you have a history of severe motion sickness symptoms, it’s best to take medication one hour before your trip.
What other medication options are there?
Bonine (meclizine) is another option. In comparison to Dramamine, Bonine touts “less drowsy” formulations. This is mainly because Bonine is taken once a day and Dramamine is taken every four to six hours as needed. That said, many studies show that as a whole, Dramamine is more effective at preventing motion sickness, though it is less convenient given the dosing.
Another option is scopolamine, which is commonly known as the round patch placed behind one’s ear.
Non-sedative antihistamines such as Zyrtec, Claritin and Allegra do not appear to be effective for motion sickness.
What about kids with motion sickness?
As noted, children under 2 typically do not experience motion sickness, while the incidence appears to peak at age 9. Generally, the same advice applies to children as it does for adults. If you need to use medication for your child, always speak with your pediatrician first. Almost all pediatric medications are weight-based, and some may have age restrictions, as well. Please never guess a dose without seeking medical advice for your child first.
What about pets with motion sickness?
There are many pre-emptive strategies that exist for dogs and cats to prevent motion sickness. A medication for motion sickness in dogs called Cerenia (maropitant), is available, and is prescription-only from a licensed veterinarian. Dramamine may also be used, however as with pediatric patients, it is weight-based. Speak with your veterinarian first.
Are there ways to prevent motion sickness?
Yes. Prevention is always the best option, when possible. Some options include:
- Use your environment: Try looking at the horizon, if you’re at sea, or another stationary object or fixture.
- Avoid reading.
- Where you sit matters. If you’re on a boat, avoid the upper levels. If you’re in a car, try to sit in the front. If you’re on a plane, look for a seat over the front edge of the wing.
- Alternative methods like hard ginger candy, P6 acupressure and motion sickness & travel wristbands (one brand is Sea-Bands) can work well.
For people with mild motion sickness history (which typically means that it does not interfere with your ability to function), the recommendations are for environmental modifications and complementary and alternative treatments mentioned above. Medications are typically not recommended, given that side effects will typically outweigh the benefits.
Dramamine Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Uses
How to use Dramamine
Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food. Measure liquid forms of this medication using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. The chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before being swallowed.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.
To prevent motion sickness, take the first dose 30 to 60 minutes before starting activity such as travel.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
Drowsiness, constipation, blurred vision, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To relieve dry mouth, suck (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, confusion), fast/irregular heartbeat, shaking (tremor), difficulty urinating.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: seizures.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking dimenhydrinate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to diphenhydramine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), high pressure in the eye (glaucoma), heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestine problems (such as ulcers, blockage), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate).
This drug may make you drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Liquid products or chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug. This drug can often cause excitement in young children instead of drowsiness.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, confusion, constipation, or trouble urinating. Drowsiness and confusion can increase the risk of falling.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug include: antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray).
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).
Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as allergy skin test), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
Does Dramamine interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, seizures, widened pupils. In children, mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, irritability, hallucinations) may occur before drowsiness.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
Next
Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.
Available coupons
Save up to 80% on your prescription with WebMDRx
Drug Survey
Have you ever purchased Dramamine?
Yes, In the past 3 months
Yes, In the past 6 months
Yes, In the past year
Haven’t purchased but considering
Don’t plan to purchase
This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.
Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Frequently Asked Question: Does Dramamine Make Dogs Sleepy?
The most common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth and difficulty urinating. Other less common side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. Serious side effects include seizures and coma and may also indicate an overdose.
The side effects of dramamin that are seen in dogs mainly include feeling drowsy or having trouble urinating. In some cases, dogs may experience vomiting and diarrhea.
When all else fails, dimenhydrinate (dramamine), the same drug people take to prevent car sickness, also works for pets. Medium to large dogs should be given 25 to 50 milligrams of dramamin at least one hour before driving, cats and small dogs should be given about 12.5 milligrams.
Both products are antihistamines that can be administered every 8 hours and may have a sedative effect. Dramamine may be better tolerated with a small amount of food. Benadryl may have potential gastrointestinal effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite.
Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) is a popular drug. It is somewhat effective in reducing the symptoms of motion sickness, but is an antihistamine. Like all antihistamines, it can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and decreased mental alertness.
If your dog is a working dog, be aware that they are likely to be drowsy and lethargic during their normal activities and tasks while on Dramamine. Also, if your dog is allergic to antihistamines, the medication may be dangerous for him because it is an antihistamine.
Dimenhydrinate (brand names: Dramamine®, Gravol®, Travtabs®, Driminate®, Triptone®) is an antihistamine used to prevent motion sickness and treat nausea, especially in dogs with vestibular disorders. It is also used for its sedative properties and reduction of itching associated with allergies.
Example: A 50 lb dog can be given 100 milligrams of dramamin containing dimenhydrinate every 8 hours or 25 milligrams of dramamin containing meclizine once a day.
Dramamine, an over-the-counter medicine commonly used to treat motion sickness, may also be used to relieve anxiety during air travel.
Dogs can take medications such as Benadryl, Reactin, Gravol and Pepcid. Dog owners often ask us about aspirin, Tylenol, and Advil.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), melatonin is a safe supplement. 10 to give to your dog. Melatonin has a small risk of harmful side effects 11 . The most common side effect is drowsiness upon waking the next morning.
Drowsiness, constipation, blurred vision, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately. To relieve dry mouth, suck on hard candies (no sugar) or ice cubes, chew gum (no sugar), drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
Cerenia® (prescription veterinary drug) and dimenhydrinate (brand names: Dramamine® or Gravol®) and meclizine (brand names: Antivert® and Bonine®). These anti-nausea medications can prevent vomiting in a stressed pet. A single dose of Cerenia® lasts 24 hours.
With consumers looking for a less sleepy Bonine alternative to the original Dramamine, Dramamine developed the All Day Less Drowsy formula. They both use 25mg of meclizine hydrochloride per tablet as the active ingredient and the dosage is the same. … You only need one dose per day.
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) vs. Dimenhydrate (Gravol)
Pharmacy Times does not distinguish between them. familydoctor.org (sponsored by the American Academy of Family Physicians) states:
- Bismuth subsalicylate (2 brands: Kaopectat, Pepto-Bismol). It can help treat certain types of nausea and vomiting, such as gastroenteritis (stomach flu). It is also used for indigestion and as an antidiarrheal (drug to treat diarrhea).
- Antihistamines . Some types may help prevent nausea and vomiting caused by movement sickness. These include dimenhydrin (brand name: Dramamine) and meclizine hydrochloride (brand name: Dramamine Less Sleepy).
The invoice quote includes more symptoms of bismuth subalicylate (which I colored grey) than antihistamines. So does bismuth subalicylate help with more symptoms than antihistamines?
Does bismuth subalicylate cover wider types of nausea and vomiting? For antihistamines, the quote above the head seems to qualify “nausea and vomiting” with “nausea and vomiting caused by movement sickness”.
How else are these two different?
- gastroenterology
- antihistamines
Origin
Greek – Area 51 Proposal
2019-01-18 11:51:34 +0000
Bismuth subalicylate and antihistamines have different mechanisms of action, so one drug is suitable for some and the other for others conditions with nausea.
Bismuth subalicylate can “calm” the intestines by being a mild anti-inflammatory, antacid, antibiotic and anti-diarrhea so that it can reduce nausea and diarrhea in * gastrointestinal conditions,** e.g. acid reflux, food poisoning, infections (stomach flu, H. pylori, etc.), irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory diseases (see also Drugs.com and RxList).
Antihistamines such as dimenhydrate , * inhibit labyrinth stimulation in the inner ear so they are mainly used for motion sickness and others conditions of the inner ear (viral labyrinth, Meniere’s disease, etc.