How Long Does It Take Dramamine To Work
Dramamine is available in various formulations, and the duration of its effects can vary based on the specific product used. Two common formulations of Dramamine are regular Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) and Dramamine Less Drowsy (meclizine).
The effects of regular Dramamine can last around four to eight hours. The effects of Dramamine Less Drowsy usually last for about 24 hours, which means that a single dose can provide protection against motion sickness for an entire day. Both formulations are best taken at least 30 minutes to an hour before any activity that causes motion sickness.
This article will go over how Dramamine works, how long the effects last, side effects, and other medications that help manage your motion sickness.
How Does Dramamine Work?
Dramamine is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that prevents nausea, vomiting, or dizziness associated with motion sickness. Motion sickness happens when there is a disconnect between what your eyes see and what your ear senses, causing you to feel nauseated. This commonly occurs when moving in a car, riding a boat, or riding an amusement park ride.
Depending on the formulation, Dramamine may contain either dimenhydrinate or meclizine as the main ingredient. The active ingredient in regular Dramamine is dimenhydrinate, which is an antihistamine. It blocks histamine receptors in the brain and gut, preventing nausea and vomiting. On the other hand, the active ingredient in Dramamine Less Drowsy is meclizine, which is also an antihistamine but is formulated to provide relief for 24 hours while minimizing drowsiness.
How Long Does Dramamine Take to Work and How Long Does It Last?
The duration can vary based on the specific product and dosage. The effects of any form of Dramamine take about 30 minutes to an hour to work. This means you must take Dramamine 30 minutes to an hour before any activity that can cause motion sickness. The effects of regular Dramamine tablets containing dimenhydrinate usually last around four to eight hours. However, Dramamine Less Drowsy provides relief for 24 hours.
Optimal Timing for Dramamine Dosing
Dramamine has three formulations: Dramamine for kids, regular Dramamine, and less drowsy Dramamine. The Dramamine for kids contains 25 milligrams (mg) of dimenhydrinate, whereas the adult formulation contains 50 milligrams. Despite this difference, both forms of Dramamine are safe for children 2 and older. Dramamine also comes in a less drowsy version called Dramamine Less Drowsy, which contains an active ingredient called meclizine. Compared to dimenhydrinate, meclizine’s effects can last 24 hours. The major disadvantage is that meclizine can only be used in children 12 or older. If your child is under 12, it is recommended to take Dramamine containing dimenhydrinate instead.
Side Effects of Dramamine
Taking Dramamine may cause you to experience side effects, such as drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision. One of the most common side effects of Dramamine is drowsiness. The main ingredient in Dramamine, dimenhydrinate, contains a common chemical called diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Both of these medications are first-generation antihistamines that cause drowsiness. As mentioned, Dramamine is an antihistamine. This class of medication can block a chemical called acetylcholine, which causes salvation and bowel movement. When antihistamines block acetylcholine, they can cause dry mouth and constipation. Blurry vision is another common side effect when taking Dramamine. Contact your healthcare provider if you have blurred vision that does not go away and you experience additional symptoms, such as headache and vomiting.
Alternatives for Motion Sickness
Because it is available OTC, Dramamine is one of the most accessible medications to help prevent motion sickness symptoms. Meclizine, the active ingredient in Less Drowsy Dramamine, is also available under the brand Bonine. Other medications can be used, such as scopolamine and promethazine; however, a prescription is required by your healthcare provider to get them. Scopolamine is a transdermal patch placed behind the ear for at least four hours before any activity that triggers motion sickness. These patches are replaced every 72 hours or three days. Phenergan (promethazine) can be used if Dramamine or scopolamine are ineffective in preventing motion sickness symptoms. The major downside of promethazine is its risk of respiratory depression, especially in children under the age of 2. Medications are not the only option to help prevent motion sickness. There are natural remedies, such as ginger, that can help you alleviate the symptoms of nausea and dizziness. You can try consuming ginger in various forms, such as tea, candies, or supplements, to help reduce motion sickness symptoms.
Summary
Dramamine is an OTC medication used to prevent motion sickness symptoms. The active ingredients in various Dramamine formulations work to reduce the symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and general discomfort, that can occur during travel or other situations involving motion. It is best to take any form of Dramamine at least 30 minutes to an hour before any activity that causes your motion sickness. Regular Dramamine lasts about four to eight hours, whereas Dramamine Less Drowsy lasts 24 hours. Understanding how long each formulation lasts can help you decide which product might be a better fit for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Dramamine last?
Dramamine’s effects last for 24 hours but all motion sickness symptoms normally go away after 4 hours. Make sure you take Dramamine in the evening and see how your body responds to it.
Is Dramamine safe?
For some people and in some circumstances, it could be useful & safe temporarily. Medication is just to help people get a bit of relief to think clearly, numb symptoms, and help them get their feet on track. If someone is feeling absolutely imploded, drugs temporarily help.
Is Dramamine safe for pregnancy?
It is unknown whether Dramamine will harm a pregnant woman or not. This drug should be taken only when absolutely necessary. Consult your doctor about its risks and rewards. But the company says it is formulated with ginger extract to relieve nausea naturally and therefore safe for pregnant women.
Can you drink with Dramamine?
Taking alcohol with Dramamine may exacerbate the side effects, irregular heartbeat, fainting, and others. It is possible to overdose on Dramamine on its own or to blackout due to excessive alcohol consumption. The combination of alcohol and Dramamine can also be toxic to liver function.
Is Dramamine good for vertigo?
Medications, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) and meclizine (Bonine), are best for treating acute vertigo. These medications are eventually weaned because they can prevent long-term healing. They target brain areas that process these conflicting signals and help cure them.
Does Dramamine make you sleepy?
The length of how long the drowsiness can last varies from person to person. Typically, drowsiness can last four to six hours. With continual use, your body will get used to medication, and the side effects will slowly disappear.