What should you know about Dramamine for nausea?

Dramamine is an anti-nausea medicine commonly used for motion sickness. It may reduce the signals that trigger nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Different products can contain different active ingredients, so read the package and do not assume that every product has the same directions.

Sleepiness, dry mouth, blurred vision or reduced alertness can occur. Alcohol and other medicines that make you sleepy may increase these effects. Children, older adults, and people with glaucoma, urinary difficulty or certain medical conditions may need individual advice before use.

Use only the labelled dose or the dose advised by a pharmacist or clinician. Avoid driving, cycling or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Sip fluids when possible and consider the cause of the nausea: gastroenteritis, food poisoning, gastritis, acid reflux, gallstones, heat exhaustion, hepatitis A and hypoglycaemia can require different care.

Ask a pharmacist to check for interactions if you take regular medicines, are pregnant, or are giving the product to a child. Do not use it to mask worsening symptoms for several days.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, blood or green material in vomit, confusion, fainting, severe headache, a stiff neck, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Get prompt help if nausea follows a head injury, occurs with chest pain, or comes with high fever. Severe sleepiness or breathing difficulty after a dose needs emergency help.

Is Dramamine suitable for the likely cause of my nausea? Which product and dose fit my age and medicines? How long should I use it? What symptoms would mean I need an examination instead?