Dimenhydrinate is a metabolite, directly derived from the drug molecule diphenhydramine , known to be a strong histamine inhibitor having considerable action on the central and peripheral nervous system.
For this reason, in this article, we will describe what dimenhydrinate is for, taking into account its side reactions and to what type of patients its administration is not allowed.
What is dimenhydrinate?
Dimenhydrinate is a generic drug and an active substance, the main effect of which is to be an antihistamine , but which also has antivertigo and antiemetic properties, used to prevent and treat dizziness or vertigo .
The presentation of dimenhydrinate exists in the form of tablets, vials, solutions or suppositories of 50 mg of dimenhydrinate and is administered orally. Dimenhydrinate doses start from 50 mg to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours before or during a trip, although it is important to consult your doctor for this.
Note: A medical study highlights that: “Dimenhydrinate is a non-specific H1 antagonist , so it is capable of antagonizing other receptors such as central and peripheral cholinergic receptors . “
What is dimenhydrinate used for?
Dimenhydrinate serves to inhibit the functions of the peripheral labyrinth, which is responsible for sending nerve messages to the brain . Its mechanism of action is like a kind of much-needed sedation for certain cases. Therefore, it serves as a treatment for the following conditions:
1. Motion sickness
Also called motion sickness, it is a sensation of dizziness that frequently occurs during long trips , both by plane and in boats or cars, due to a great sensitivity of the vestibular apparatus.
Its best-known symptoms are dizziness, cold sweat, paleness and discomfort in the abdominal area accompanied by nausea or vomiting may also occur .
To highlight: In this case, dimenhydrinate is responsible for blocking histamine receptors and neurotransmitters , thus creating a sedative effect against vestibular stimuli (caused by movement and pressure).
2. Dizziness of peripheral origin
This is a type of disorder called peripheral vertigo, which is a case where it feels like everything starts to move jerkily, not excluding tilting sensations. It is an episode caused by problems in the structure of the inner ear and Ménière’s disease.
This type of vertigo is identified by the appearance of symptoms such as dizziness, acute hearing loss , pressure in the ears and a very noticeable lack of balance.
You should know: Beyond the sedation of the peripheral system, dimenhydrinate is responsible for reducing inflammation or ear pressure caused by contractions in response to histamine.
Dimenhydrinate Side Effects
Dimenhydrinate can present a series of adverse effects that are not very pleasant, for those who do not have much experience with the use of this type of drug. Therefore, one should be aware of these adverse reactions:
- Tachycardia.
- Drowsiness.
- Headache.
- Diarrhea .
- Blurry vision.
Important: A medical article mentions the following information: “Elderly patients are more sensitive to the central and peripheral anticholinergic effects of dimenhydrinate” .
Contraindications of dimenhydrinate
Dimenhydrinate is contraindicated for a certain number of patients, who may have different disorders or diseases that react negatively with the administration of this type of medication. For this reason, dimenhydrinate should not be prescribed for:
- Asthma.
- Hypersensitivity to the active principle.
- Prostatic hypertrophy.
- Epilepsy.
- Hypertension.
- Closed angle glaucoma.
You should know: One study highlights this information: ” Dimenhydrinate is not recommended for use in lactating women, newborns, or premature infants due to increased sensitivity to antimuscarinic side effects.”
Key Findings
- Dimenhydrinate is a generic drug, whose doses can reduce the actions of histamine and vertigo.
- Dimenhydrinate may be prescribed for motion sickness or for abnormalities of the vestibular system.
- Dimenhydrinate can cause gastric problems or palpitations, such as adverse reactions.
- Dimenhydrinate should not be prescribed during pregnancy and lactation.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.