From the Research
The drug of choice for oral treatment of nausea and vomiting during travel is typically dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine). For adults, take 50 mg of dimenhydrinate or 25 mg of meclizine 30 minutes to 1 hour before travel, and then every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 4 doses in 24 hours. These antihistamines work by blocking signals to the brain that cause nausea and by reducing motion sensitivity in the inner ear. They are effective for most forms of motion sickness, including car, boat, and air travel. Be aware that these medications can cause drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery after taking them. For best results, take the first dose before symptoms begin and continue throughout the duration of your travel as needed.
Key Points to Consider
- Dimenhydrinate and meclizine are effective for preventing and treating nausea and vomiting during travel 1.
- The most recent and highest quality study available supports the use of dimenhydrinate as an effective treatment for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy, and by extension, potentially for travel-related nausea and vomiting 1.
- Other studies have also shown the efficacy of dimenhydrinate in reducing nausea and vomiting in various settings, including postoperative nausea and vomiting 2, 3.
- While other medications such as ondansetron and droperidol may be effective, they are not typically the first-line treatment for travel-related nausea and vomiting due to their potential side effects and higher cost 4, 5.
Important Considerations
- Always follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions for any medication.
- Be aware of potential side effects, such as drowsiness, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety while traveling.
- If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.