Meclizine : Therapeutic uses, Clinical uses, Indications, Dosage, Side Effects, Warnings, Interactions, Precautions, Contraindications & Brand names
Meclizine (meclozine) is a first generation H1- receptor blocker, used for prevention of symptoms of motion sickness like nausea, vomiting, dizziness & for management of vertigo.
Dose : 25-50 mg (Oral)
Route : Oral, Sublingual
Plasma half-life : 6 hours
Duration of action : 12-24 hours
Bioavailability : ?
Chemical formula : C25H27ClN2
IUPAC name : (RS)-1-[(4-chlorophenyl)(phenyl)methyl]-4-(3-methylbenzyl)piperazine
Trade name : Diligan, Pregnidoxin, Bonine, Bonamine, Antivert, Postafen, Sea Legs, Dramamine II, Emesafene (meclizine + pyridoxine)
Therapeutic uses : Meclizine has following usage :
- Can be used for prevention of symptoms of Motion sickness. They are usually not effective if symptoms are already present and, thus, should be taken prior to expected travel.
- Useful in treating & preventing the allergic reactions.
- It has moderate sedation.
- May be useful in treating the Meniere’s disease i.e. Vestibular disturbances
Side effects : First-generation H1-receptor blockers have a low specificity, interacting not only with histamine receptors but also with muscarinic cholinergic receptors, α-adrenergic receptors, and serotonin receptors. Some side effects may be undesirable, and others may be of therapeutic value. Following side effects are demarcated:
- Sedation,
- Diminished alertness and concentration,
- Light headedness,
- Motor incoordination,
- Fatigue and tendency to fall asleep,
- Dryness of mouth,
- Alteration of bowel movement,
- Urinary hesitancy,
- Blurring of vision,
- Epigastric distress,
- Headache,
Acute overdose produces central excitation, tremors, hallucinations, muscular incordination, convulsions, flushing, hypotension, fever and some other features of belladonna poisoning. Death is due to respiratory and cardiovascular failure.
Drug Interactions : Meclizine may interact with following drugs :
Precautions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist
- If you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
- Your medical history, especially of especially of respiratory problems, glaucoma, heart problems, high bp, liver disease, seizures, GIT problems, hyperthyroidism, urinary problems, kidney disease.
Contraindications
- Contraindicated in individuals who have shown a previous hypersensitivity to it.
For detailed query or in case of uncertainty, Always consult your doctor or pharmacist.