Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) Dosing for Children
The recommended dose of Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) for children is 1-1.5 mg/kg per dose, not to exceed 50 mg per dose for children under 12 years of age.
Age-Based Dosing Guidelines
Children Under 2 Years
- Not recommended without physician supervision
- Safety and efficacy not well established in this age group
Children 2-5 Years
- 12.5-25 mg per dose
- Maximum: 75 mg daily
- Administer every 6-8 hours as needed
Children 6-12 Years
- 25-50 mg per dose
- Maximum: 150 mg daily
- Administer every 6-8 hours as needed
Children Over 12 Years and Adults
- 50-100 mg per dose
- Maximum: 400 mg daily
- Administer every 4-6 hours as needed
Safety Considerations
Toxicity Thresholds
- Children under 6 years: Doses of 7.5 mg/kg or greater require emergency department referral 1
- Children 6 years and older: Doses of 7.5 mg/kg or 300 mg (whichever is less) require emergency department referral 1
Monitoring
- Monitor for drowsiness, which is the most common side effect
- Watch for paradoxical excitation, especially in young children
- Observe for visual disturbances, as dimenhydrinate can impair night vision, reaction time, and depth perception 2
Contraindications
- Avoid in children with narrow-angle glaucoma
- Use with caution in children with asthma, seizure disorders, or urinary retention
- Do not use with other antihistamines or CNS depressants without medical supervision
Administration Tips
- Can be given with food to reduce GI upset
- For motion sickness, administer 30-60 minutes before travel
- Duration of action is approximately 4-6 hours
Warning Signs of Overdose
- Severe drowsiness or agitation
- Hallucinations
- Abnormal muscle movements
- Seizures
- Respiratory depression
If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention. Dimenhydrinate overdose can progress rapidly and potentially be fatal 3.
Alternative Options
For children who cannot tolerate dimenhydrinate or when it's contraindicated, consider:
- Non-pharmacological approaches (proper positioning, fresh air, focusing on distant horizon)
- Ginger-based products (for children over 2 years)
- Consultation with a healthcare provider for alternative medications
Remember that while dimenhydrinate is effective for motion sickness, it can cause significant sedation and should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.