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Dimenhydrinate: uses, side effects & brands
Dimenhydrinate prevents and treats motion sickness and nausea. It belongs to the Vertigo & anti-nausea (vestibular) medicine group. These relieve dizziness (vertigo), motion sickness and nausea by acting on the balance and vomiting centres.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Vertigo & anti-nausea (vestibular) medicine |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Preventing and treating motion sickness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and vertigo
Common brand names
- India: Gravol, Dramamine
- Worldwide: Dramamine, Gravol
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Excitability or restlessness, especially in children
Before taking it — precautions
- Tell your doctor about glaucoma, enlarged prostate or trouble passing urine, or asthma
- Alcohol and sleeping or calming medicines add to drowsiness
- Young children and older people — ask a doctor first
When to see a doctor urgently
- Rash, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing (urgent)
- Confusion, hallucinations or fits (urgent)
- Unable to pass urine
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of dimenhydrinate depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
When should I take it for travel?
Before the journey, as the label or your doctor advises.
Will it make me sleepy?
Yes, often — do not drive or use machines if affected.
Can children take it?
Some products are for children, but only as the label or doctor advises; children may become restless instead of sleepy.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.