Meclizine

Generic Name : Meclizine

TradeName : Diligan, Pregnidoxin, PNV

Overview : It is an antichloinergic. It has long duration of action. The medication comes in the form of 12.5-25mgs capsules.
Meclizine comes in the form of regular and chewable tablets and capsules. The chewable tablets may be chewed or swallowed whole. Follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Meclizine is an antihistamine used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness.
It is most effective if taken before symptoms appear.
It is also used to prevent dizziness caused by some ear conditions such as Meniere's disease. It is not used to treat allergies.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications) : This medication should not be taken by pregnant women.

How it should be taken : For motion sickness, meclizine should be taken one hour before you start to travel. Doses may be taken every 24 hours if needed.
For dizziness caused by an ear condition, follow your doctor's instructions.
In the case of adults: 12-5-25mg. Not recommended in childrens.
Take meclizine exactly as directed.

Special Instruction :
1. Meclizine makes some people drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how it affects you.
2. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. Take the remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. Do not take more than one dose at a time.
3. Inform your doctor if you have complaints of sedation, drowsiness, glaucoma, epilepsy and liver disease.

Side Effects :
1. Drowsiness and fatigue: Avoid alcohol as it increases the drowsiness caused by the drug.
2. Dry mouth: Drink fluids, chew sugarless gum, or suck sugarless hard candies or lozenges.
3. Blurred vision.
4. Constipation and epigastric distress. Contact your doctor in case of severe symptoms.

Other Precautions :
1. Tell your doctor about the prescripton and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially medication for colds or allergies, sleep medications, medications for seizure, narcotics, barbiturates, tranquilizers, and pain medicine.
These drugs can increase the drowsiness caused by meclizine.
2. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking meclizine.
3. Tell your doctor if you have glaucoma, prostate problems, urniary tract blockage, or asthma.
4. Women who become pregnant
should stop taking it and notify their doctors immediately.
5. Do not give meclizine to a child under 12 years of age without a doctor's permission.
6. Use with caution in case of pregnancy
and lactation. May be used in elderly.

Storage Conditions :
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature.