- Dramamine helps prevent and treat nausea, dizziness, and vomiting caused by motion sickness, vertigo, or surgery, and is available over the counter in several forms.
- The most common U.S. formulations include 50 mg tablets, chewable tablets, and syrup, each with specific dosing guidelines by age.
- Drowsiness is a frequent side effect, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery after taking Dramamine.
Dramamine is an antihistamine medicine that contains dimenhydrinate. It’s commonly used to prevent and treat nausea, dizziness, and vomiting caused by motion sickness, pregnancy, vertigo (labyrinthitis), or as a side effect of radiation therapy and surgery.
This medicine works by acting directly on the vomiting center in the brain while also lowering histamine levels in the body. Histamine is a natural chemical that can trigger stomach acid production and stomach contractions that lead to nausea and vomiting.
Dramamine is available over the counter in most pharmacies as oral drops (2.5 mg/mL), capsules (25 mg or 50 mg), and tablets (100 mg). It should always be taken as directed by a doctor, following the prescribed dose and treatment duration.
What it is used for
Dramamine is used to prevent and relieve nausea and vomiting in the following situations:
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Pregnancy
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Motion sickness (helps relieve dizziness)
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After radiation therapy
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Before and after surgery
It can also help manage vertigo and symptoms of labyrinthitis.
Difference between Dramamine and Dramamine B6
Both Dramamine and Dramamine B6 contain dimenhydrinate, which acts on the balance center and vomiting control areas of the brain to relieve nausea and vomiting.
However, Dramamine B6 also contains vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). This vitamin supports chemical processes in parts of the brain involved in balance and nausea control, such as the labyrinth and vestibular system, enhancing the anti-nausea effect of dimenhydrinate.
How to use
Dramamine should be taken by mouth with a small amount of water, ideally just before or during meals. For travel-related nausea, it should be taken at least 30 minutes before the trip begins.
1. Dramamine 50 mg tablets
These tablets are the most common form available in the U.S. and can be used by adults and children 12 years and older. The usual dose is 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed, following medical advice.
The maximum daily dose should not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours (400 mg).
2. Dramamine chewable tablets
Chewable tablets are available in 25 mg or 50 mg strengths and can be taken by adults and children 6 years and older. They should be chewed completely before swallowing.
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For adults and children 12 years and older: 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not exceeding 8 tablets per day.
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For children 6 to 12 years old: ½ to 1 tablet every 6 to 8 hours as needed, not exceeding 3 tablets per day.
If you’re using a children’s formulation, always follow the dosing instructions on the package or those provided by a pediatrician.
3. Dramamine liquid (syrup)
The liquid form is generally used for children who have difficulty swallowing tablets. It may be available as 15 mg per 5 mL syrup, and doses are typically based on body weight.
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Children 2 to 6 years: 5 to 10 mL (15 to 30 mg) every 6 to 8 hours, as directed by a pediatrician.
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Children 6 to 12 years: 10 to 20 mL (30 to 60 mg) every 6 to 8 hours, as directed by a pediatrician.
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Adults and children over 12 years: 20 to 40 mL (60 to 120 mg) every 4 to 6 hours, as advised by a doctor.
The syrup should be measured using a dosing spoon or oral syringe for accuracy.
If you have liver problems, your doctor may adjust the dose or recommend a longer interval between doses.
4. Clinical use (injection)
In hospitals or emergency care, dimenhydrinate may also be given as an intramuscular or intravenous injection (50 mg/mL), but this form is not available over the counter and should only be used under medical supervision.
Side effects
The most common side effects of Dramamine include blurred vision, dry mouth, urinary retention, dizziness, drowsiness, irritability, or trouble sleeping.
Does Dramamine cause drowsiness?
Yes. Drowsiness is one of the most common side effects. It’s normal to feel sleepy for several hours after taking Dramamine.
Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or doing activities that require full alertness after taking this medicine. Alcohol should also be avoided because it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
Who should not use it
Dramamine should not be used by anyone allergic to dimenhydrinate or any of its ingredients, or by those with porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
The liquid form should not be used in children under 2 years old, and the tablets are not recommended for children under 12. Capsules should not be used in children under 6 years old.
During pregnancy or breastfeeding, Dramamine should only be used if prescribed by a doctor.