Meclizine Ref.: Davis's Drug Guide

Meclizine
(mek-li-zeen)
Antivert, Bonamine, Bonine, Dramamine Less Drowsy Formula

Classification
Therapeutic: antiemetics, antihistamines
Pregnancy Category B

Indications
Management/prevention of: Motion sickness, Vertigo.



Action
Has central anticholinergic, CNS depressant, and antihistaminic properties. Decreases excitability of the middle ear labyrinth and depresses conduction in middle ear vestibular-cerebellar pathways.
Therapeutic Effects: Decreased motion sickness. Decreased vertigo from vestibular pathology.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Absorbed after oral administration.
Distribution: Unknown.
Metabolism and Excretion: Unknown.
Half-life: 6 hr.

TIME/ACTION PROFILE (antihistaminic
effects)

ROUTE: PO 
ONSET: 1 hr 
PEAK: unknown
DURATION:  8–24 hr

Contraindications/Precautions
Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity; OB: Has caused congenital malformations (cleft palate) in animal studies.
Use Cautiously in: Prostatic hyperplasia; Angleclosure glaucoma; Lactation: Occasional use may be acceptable; prolonged use may expose infant to drug effects or may interfere with milk supply;
Pedi: Children <12 yr (safety not established);
Geri: increase sensitivity and risk of adverse reactions.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
CNS: drowsiness, fatigue. EENT: blurred vision.
GI: dry mouth.

Interactions
Drug-Drug: Additive CNS depression with other CNS depressants, including alcohol, other antihistamines, opioid analgesics, and sedative/ hypnotics. Additive anticholinergic effects with other drugs possessing anticholinergic properties, including some antihistamines, antidepressants, atropine, haloperidol, phenothiazines, quinidine, and disopyramide.

Posted in: Motion Sickness