What is meclizine?
Meclizine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body.
Meclizine is used to treat or prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. Meclizine is also used to treat symptoms of vertigo.
Meclizine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about meclizine?
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to meclizine.
Before taking meclizine, tell your doctor if you have asthma or other breathing disorder, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or problems with urination.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 12 years old.
Meclizine can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of meclizine.
Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by meclizine. Avoid taking these other medications at the same time you take meclizine.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking meclizine?
You should not take this medication if you are allergic to meclizine.
Before taking meclizine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use this medication, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.
FDA pregnancy category B. Meclizine is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether meclizine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 12 years old.