Meclizine has antiemetic, anticholinergic and antihistaminic properties. It reduces the sensitivity of the labyrinthine apparatus. The action may be mediated through nerve pathways to the vomiting center (VC) from the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), peripheral nerve pathways, the VC, or other CNS centers. Meclizine has an onset of action of 30 to 60 minutes, depending on dosage; their duration of action is 12 to 24 hours.

Meclizine Hydrochloride is indicated in nausea, vomiting, motion sickness, vertigo.

Adult & children over 12 years of age:

• Nausea and vomiting: 25-50 mg once daily.
• Motion sickness: Take an initial dose of 25 to 50 mg, 1 hour prior to travel. May repeat dose every 24 hours for the duration of the journey. Children: Age 6-12 years, 12.5 mg once daily. Age 2-6 years, 6.25 mg once daily.
• Vertigo: 25 to 100 mg daily in divided doses.
• Radiotherapy induced nausea and vomiting: 50 mg two to twelve hours prior to radiotherapy.
• Emergency contraception: 25-50 mg, 1 hour before first ECP dose; repeat if needed in 24 hours.

Use in children: Clinical studies establishing safety and efficacy in children have not been done; therefore, its use should be determined by physician.

Use in elderly: There is no specific information available. However older people may be especially sensitive to the anticholinergic effects of medicine.

Meclizine is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to Meclizine or any of its excipeints.

Common side effects are Drowsiness, dry mouth, and on rare occasions, blurred vision have been reported.

Overdose Effects

Symptoms: Extreme excitability, seizures, drowsiness and hallucinations.

Treatment: Appropriate supportive and symptomatic treatment. Consider dialysis.

Patients with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, enlarged prostate, glaucoma or urinary tract blockage should take Meclizine (like other antiemetics) with caution.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Meclizine shows no risk of birth defects or abnormalities when administered during pregnancy. Although Meclizine may excrete into the milk, it causes no harm in nursing babies.