Antivert (Meclizine)

antivert

Antivert is a brand name for the medication called meclizine. It is an antihistamine that is commonly used to treat symptoms of motion sickness and vertigo. Motion sickness can occur during travel, such as car rides, boat trips, or flights, and is characterized by symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Vertigo, on the other hand, is a specific type of dizziness that makes you feel like you or your surroundings are spinning or moving.

Antivert works by blocking histamine receptors in the brain, which helps to reduce the brain's response to motion and prevent the sensations of motion sickness and vertigo. It is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and sometimes as a transdermal patch.

Uses

Antivert is primarily used for the following purposes:

  • Motion Sickness: Antivert is commonly prescribed to prevent and treat motion sickness caused by motion during travel, such as car rides, boat trips, airplanes, or amusement park rides. It helps alleviate symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
  • Vertigo: Medicine is used to relieve symptoms of vertigo, which is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a sensation of spinning or the feeling that you or your surroundings are moving when there is no actual movement.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: In addition to motion sickness and vertigo, Antivert can be used to manage nausea and vomiting caused by other factors, such as certain medical conditions or side effects of other medications.
Antivert Tablets

Dosage

The dosage of Antivert can vary depending on the individual's age, medical condition, and the specific brand or formulation of the medication. The following are general dosage guidelines, but it's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions or the dosing information provided on the medication label.

For Motion Sickness and Vertigo:

Adults and children 12 years of age and older:

  • Typically, the initial dose is 25 to 50 mg taken one hour before travel or when symptoms of vertigo occur.
  • The dose may be repeated every 24 hours if necessary, but it's essential not to exceed the recommended daily dosage.

Children 6 to 12 years of age:

  • The usual dosage is 25 mg, which can be taken one hour before travel or when vertigo symptoms occur.
  • The dose may be repeated every 24 hours as needed, but it's essential to follow the doctor's instructions.
  • Antivert is generally not recommended for children under 6 years old.

For Nausea and Vomiting:

Antivert is sometimes used off-label for this purpose, and the dosing may differ from that used for motion sickness or vertigo.

Important Considerations:

  • Always take Antivert with a full glass of water, with or without food.
  • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
  • Do not take more than the recommended dose, as it can lead to side effects or complications.

Overdose

An overdose of Antivert can be serious and may require immediate medical attention. Taking more than the prescribed dose or accidentally ingesting large amounts can lead to various symptoms and complications. If you suspect an overdose or someone shows signs of an overdose, seek emergency medical assistance or contact your local poison control center immediately.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

  • Severe drowsiness or sedation
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Hallucinations
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • Trouble breathing or respiratory distress
  • Seizures
  • Unconsciousness or coma

In case of an overdose, the treatment will focus on supportive care to manage symptoms and stabilize the individual. This may include monitoring vital signs, providing respiratory support if needed, and administering medications to reverse the effects of the overdose.

Precautions

When using Antivert, it's essential to take certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Antivert with your doctor. The safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established.
  • Driving and Operating Machinery: Antivert can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid activities that require mental alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
  • Alcohol and Sedatives: Combining Antivert with alcohol or other sedatives can increase drowsiness and may lead to dangerous side effects. Avoid alcohol and other sedating substances while taking Antivert.
  • Avoid Overdose: Stick to the recommended dosage as prescribed. Taking more than the prescribed amount can lead to an overdose and serious health risks.
  • Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
  • Elderly Patients: Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Antivert, especially drowsiness. Caution should be exercised when prescribing this medication to elderly individuals.
  • Other Medications: Antivert may interact with certain medications, including central nervous system depressants, tranquilizers, and anticholinergic drugs. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
  • Avoid Stopping Abruptly: If you have been taking Antivert for a prolonged period, consult your doctor before discontinuing the medication. Abruptly stopping some medications can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of the original symptoms.

Side Effects

Antivert is generally well-tolerated by most people when used at the recommended doses. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. The most common side effects may include:

  • Drowsiness or sedation: This is one of the most common side effects of Antivert and can affect your ability to perform tasks that require alertness.
  • Dry mouth: Antivert can cause a decrease in saliva production, leading to a dry or sticky feeling in the mouth.
  • Blurred vision: Some people may experience temporary changes in vision, such as blurred or hazy vision.
  • Dizziness or unsteadiness: Although remedy is used to treat vertigo, it may also cause a sense of dizziness or unsteadiness in some individuals.
  • Nausea or stomach upset: Some people may experience gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea or stomach discomfort.
  • Headache: Antivert may trigger headaches in certain individuals.
  • Constipation: It can lead to difficulty passing stools in some cases.

These side effects are generally mild and tend to resolve on their own as your body adjusts to the medication.

In some cases, Antivert can cause more severe side effects, though they are rare. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention:

  • Allergic reactions: Signs of an allergic reaction may include hives, rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia): Seek medical attention if you notice a significantly increased heart rate or irregular heart rhythm.
  • Difficulty urinating or changes in urination patterns: Antivert can affect the urinary system in some individuals, leading to problems with urination.
  • Seizures: In rare cases, Antivert may trigger seizures, especially in individuals with a history of epilepsy.
  • Confusion or hallucinations: Some people may experience mental changes, such as confusion or hallucinations.

Storage

To ensure the effectiveness and safety of Antivert and other medications, proper storage is essential. Here are some guidelines for storing:

  • Keep in a Cool, Dry Place: Store Antivert tablets or any other forms of the medication in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, as these places can expose the medication to humidity.
  • Follow Label Instructions: Always follow the storage instructions provided on the medication's label or packaging. Different formulations of Antivert may have specific storage requirements.
  • Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store Antivert and all medications out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
  • Store Away from Food and Beverages: Do not store Antivert near food items or beverages to avoid any chance of contamination.
  • Do Not Use Expired Medication: Check the expiration date on the medication's label and discard any expired medication. Expired medications may not be effective and could potentially be harmful.
  • Original Packaging: It is recommended to keep the Antivert in its original packaging or container to ensure proper identification and dosing information.
  • Transdermal Patches: If you are using Antivert transdermal patches, follow the specific storage instructions provided with the patches. Typically, they should be stored in a sealed pouch until use.
  • Dispose of Unused Medication Safely: If you have leftover Antivert that is no longer needed or has expired, do not flush it down the toilet or throw it in the trash.