Meclizine
ANTIVERT
What it isCentrally acting H1 antihistamine; vertigo and motion sickness.
Why this oneIt works on vestibular nausea, where ondansetron does not.
What limits itSedation and fall risk, so poor in the elderly. It suppresses vestibular compensation, so it should not be continued for weeks.
FDA-approved for
- vertigo/motion sickness (~1957)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motion sickness prevention | Adults & children ≥12 yr | 1–2 tablets QD | 1–2 tablets QD | 2 tablets QD |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Take first dose ½ to 1 hour before starting activity/travel.
- Do not take more than directed.
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskSedation and fall risk
Cost, est. cash$5–$150/month
Generic entry1982
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryC
Defining liabilitySedation, QT prolongation, extrapyramidal symptoms or anticholinergic toxicity vary by receptor target.
Mechanism of action: Meclizine ballicule
Open Meclizine in the interactive console ↗
Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
