Meclozine

Meclozine (also known as meclizine) is an antihistamine medication that is primarily used to treat and prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It is also used for the management of vertigo in diseases affecting the vestibular system. Meclozine works by blocking the signals to the brain that cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

Medical Uses

Meclozine is effective in the prevention and treatment of nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. It is also used in the management of vertigo due to diseases of the vestibular system. The medication is taken orally, with or without food.

Mechanism of Action

Meclozine functions as an antihistamine, specifically targeting the H1 histamine receptors. It also possesses anticholinergic, central nervous system depressant, and local anesthetic effects. The drug works by reducing the activity of the vestibular system, thereby decreasing the symptoms of motion sickness and vertigo.

Side Effects

Common side effects of meclozine include dry mouth, drowsiness, blurred vision, and dizziness. Less common side effects may include headache, vomiting, or tiredness. Due to its sedative effects, it is advised that patients do not drive or operate heavy machinery until they know how meclozine affects them.

Contraindications

Meclozine is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug. Caution is advised in patients with glaucoma, enlarged prostate, urinary retention, or obstructive gastrointestinal conditions due to the anticholinergic effects of the drug.

Pharmacokinetics

Meclozine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and has a long half-life, allowing for once-daily dosing in some cases. The drug is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in the urine.

Interactions

Meclozine may interact with other medications that cause drowsiness, including alcohol, barbiturates, and other central nervous system depressants. It may also enhance the effects of other anticholinergic drugs.

Dosage

The dosage of meclozine varies depending on the condition being treated. For motion sickness, a common dose is 25 to 50 mg taken 1 hour before travel. For vertigo, the dosage may vary and should be determined by a healthcare provider.

History

Meclozine was first synthesized in the 1950s and has since become a widely used medication for motion sickness and vertigo.

Society and Culture

Meclozine is available under various brand names and as a generic medication. It is often available over-the-counter in many countries for the treatment of motion sickness.