Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the body's sensory systems, particularly the inner ear, eyes, and sensory nerves. This sensory mismatch is what triggers feelings of nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Oral motion sickness tablets, known as antiemetics, work by blocking these signals in the brain to prevent symptoms from developing. The two most common over-the-counter active ingredients are dimenhydrinate and meclizine, each with distinct characteristics regarding onset and duration of action.
How Motion Sickness Tablets Work
Motion sickness tablets, which are a type of antihistamine, primarily target the brain's vomiting center and the inner ear's balance nerves. They block certain neurotransmitters, such as histamine and acetylcholine, that play a key role in causing motion sickness symptoms. This creates a calming effect on the brain's vestibular system, helping to re-establish a sense of balance. For these medications to be most effective, they must be taken before motion sickness symptoms begin. Once nausea and vomiting have started, absorption of oral medication can be impaired due to gastric stasis.
Timing for Effective Prevention
Proper timing is the most critical factor for the effective use of motion tablets. Taking them too late can render them ineffective for prevention. Always follow the specific instructions on the product label and consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Using Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
- Timing: For best preventative results, take the first dose before the start of your journey or activity as directed on the product label or by a healthcare professional.
Using Meclizine (Bonine, Dramamine Less Drowsy)
- Timing: Take meclizine before travel as directed. This provides longer-lasting relief, which is ideal for extended journeys like cruises.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Like all medications, motion tablets can cause side effects. Awareness and preparation can help manage them effectively.
- Drowsiness and Dizziness: These are the most common side effects, particularly with dimenhydrinate, which is a known sedating antihistamine. Meclizine is often marketed as 'less drowsy,' though it can still cause drowsiness in some individuals. You should not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
- Dry Mouth: Both dimenhydrinate and meclizine can cause a dry mouth due to their anticholinergic properties. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking on hard candy can provide relief.
- Other Side Effects: Less common side effects can include blurred vision, constipation, and difficulty urinating. If you have a pre-existing condition like glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or asthma, consult a healthcare provider before use, as these medications may worsen your condition.
- Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking motion tablets, as it can intensify the sedative effects.
Comparison of Common Motion Tablets
| Feature | Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine Original) | Meclizine (Bonine, Dramamine Less Drowsy) |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Works faster. | Takes slightly longer. |
| Duration | Effects last several hours, potentially requiring multiple doses on long trips. | Can last for a significant duration with a single dose. |
| Primary Effect | Highly effective, but often causes significant drowsiness. | Effective with a lower likelihood of causing drowsiness. |
| Best For | Shorter trips or when severe symptoms require rapid relief. | Longer journeys like cruises or air travel when alertness is preferred. |
| Age Range | Suitable for certain age ranges (with appropriate guidance). | Approved for adults and children 12 years and older. |
Additional Tips for Managing Motion Sickness
Alongside taking medication, several behavioral strategies can enhance its effectiveness and reduce symptoms:
- Choose the Right Seating: Sit in a location with minimal motion, such as the front seat of a car, near the wing in a plane, or the center of a boat.
- Focus on the Horizon: Keep your line of sight fixed on a stable point in the distance. This helps to synchronize the visual information your brain receives with the balance signals from your inner ear.
- Stay Distracted: Avoid reading or using screens, which can worsen the sensory confusion. Instead, try listening to music or an audiobook.
- Get Fresh Air: Opening a window or using air vents to direct fresh air towards you can help alleviate symptoms.
- Mind Your Meals: Eat a light meal before traveling and avoid heavy, greasy, or acidic foods that can upset your stomach further.
Conclusion
Properly using motion tablets involves selecting the right medication for your travel plans and taking it preemptively, well before motion sickness has a chance to set in. By understanding the differences between common options like dimenhydrinate and meclizine, following instructions, and being mindful of potential side effects, you can manage and prevent motion sickness effectively. For those seeking non-medicated options, techniques like focusing on the horizon and using ginger can be helpful supplementary strategies. Always read the product label carefully and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or pre-existing conditions. For more comprehensive information on travel health, the CDC website is a valuable resource.
