Meclizine
Meclizine is an antihistamine medication used primarily to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness, as well as vertigo caused by inner ear disorders. It works by affecting the vestibular system in the inner ear and blocking histamine receptors to reduce sensations of movement and imbalance.
Meclizine is an antihistamine used to treat motion sickness and vertigo by reducing nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R06AX03
- RxNorm
- 1904
- Generic
- Meclizine
- Class
- atc-r06
- Brands
- Verticalm, Wal-Dram 2, Bonine, Dramamine Nausea Relief, Pepto Nausea, Dramamine Less Drowsy, Antivert, Zentrip
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- B
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 6
- Onset (min)
- 60
- Duration (h)
- 8
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, chewable tablet, oral suspension
- Regions
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Germany
- Monitoring
- drowsiness, sedation
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention and treatment of motion sickness; treatment of vertigo associated with vestibular disorders such as Ménière's disease; management of nausea and dizziness
Meclizine is an H1 antihistamine that acts on the vestibular system in the inner ear. It blocks histamine receptors and has anticholinergic properties, which help reduce signals that cause nausea, vomiting, and vertigo.
May cause drowsiness; avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking; use caution when operating machinery; consult a doctor before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications; not recommended for children under 12 without medical advice.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy