Dimenhydrinate

Administration

• Type: Antiemetics; Antihistamines
• Dosage Forms:
• Routes of Administration: oral, IV/IM
• Common Trade Names: Dramamine

Adult Dosing

Motion Sickness

• 50mg PO/IV/IM q4-6h
  • Maximum Dose: 400 mg within 24 hours

Pediatric Dosing

Motion Sickness

• 2-6yo: 12.5-25mg PO q6-8 hrs
  • Maximum Dose: 75 mg within 24 hours
• 6-12yo: 25-50mg PO q6-8h
  • 150 mg within 24 hours
• 1.25 mg/kg IM q6h

Special Populations

• Pregnancy Rating: B
• Lactation risk: Milk effects are posible
• Renal dosing:
• Hepatic dosing: consider dose reduction

Contraindications

• Allergy to class/drug

Adverse Reactions

Serious

• Anticholinergic toxicity

Common

• Nausea, vomiting
• Sedation

Pharmacology

• Half-life: 5-8 hours
• Metabolism: Liver
• Excretion: Renal

Mechanism of Action

• Precise anti-nausea mechanism unknown, has depressant action on hyperstimulated labyrinthine function

Comments

• Dimenhydrinate is a combination drug of diphenhydramine and 8-chlorotheophylline
• Used recreationally as a deliriant

See Also

• Antiemetics
• Anticholinergic toxicity