What is the interaction between Cinnarizine and Dimenhydrinate?

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Last updated: February 26, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

The combination of cinnarizine and dimenhydrinate is a highly effective treatment for vertigo, with the most recent and highest quality study 1 demonstrating a significant reduction in vertigo symptoms in over 75% of patients. The standard dosage of this combination is typically 20 mg of cinnarizine and 40 mg of dimenhydrinate per tablet, taken three times daily. The medication works through complementary mechanisms:

  • cinnarizine acts as a calcium channel blocker that reduces vestibular sensory input,
  • dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine that suppresses vestibular function and reduces nausea. Some key points to consider when prescribing this combination include:
  • Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and mild sedation, so patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
  • The combination is particularly effective for vertigo of peripheral origin, such as Ménière's disease or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo.
  • Treatment duration typically ranges from a few days for acute motion sickness to several weeks for chronic vestibular disorders, though long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider due to potential tolerance development.
  • The fixed combination of cinnarizine and dimenhydrinate has been shown to have a better safety profile than either medication alone, with a lower incidence of adverse events 2.
  • The combination has also been shown to be effective in reducing concomitant vegetative symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, in patients with vertigo 3, 4.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.