Does Dramamine make you sleepy?

“I took Dramamine and felt really drowsy and kind of out of it. Does Dramamine make you sleepy?”

Dr. Janyele Sales
Family Doctor CRM 177392-SP

Yes, Dramamine can make you sleepy, especially when you first start taking it or if you use it only occasionally.

Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) is used to treat nausea, vomiting, and vertigo. About 10% of people who take it experience sedation or sleepiness because it slows activity in the central nervous system. This effect tends to resolve after a few days of treatment.

While taking Dramamine, it is important to avoid alcohol and other medications that can increase drowsiness, such as sedatives, antidepressants, and tranquilizers. Using these substances together can intensify its depressant effect on the nervous system and worsen sedation and sleepiness.

Because Dramamine can cause sleepiness, use extra caution when driving or operating machinery. If Dramamine makes you drowsy, avoid these activities or take additional precautions.

Your primary care provider can provide additional guidance on the use and effects of Dramamine.

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