Meclizine (Meclozine)

Meclizine is an antihistamine widely used for motion sickness and inner-ear dizziness (vertigo).

Primary uses

• Prevention and relief of motion sickness
• Symptomatic relief of vertigo from inner-ear conditions

Blocks histamine H1 receptors in the vomiting centre and inner-ear pathways, dampening motion-triggered nausea and dizziness.

• Tablet — 12.5 mg, 25 mg (Oral)
• Chewable tablet — 25 mg (Oral)

Do not use if

• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Untreated urinary retention
• Known allergy to meclizine

Pregnancy

Use with caution — discuss with clinician. Considered acceptable for occasional short-term use; discuss with a clinician.

Breastfeeding

Use with caution — discuss with clinician. Limited data; occasional use is usually acceptable.

Kidney considerations

• Use with caution in significant kidney disease.

Liver considerations

• Use with caution in significant liver disease.

Paediatric use

Under clinical supervision.

Older adults

First-generation antihistamines can cause drowsiness, confusion, and urinary retention in older adults.

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Constipation

• Serious allergic reaction (rare)
• Confusion or urinary retention in older adults

Alcohol

• Alcohol will worsen drowsiness and dizziness.

Storage

Store below 25 °C, out of reach of children.

If a dose is missed

Take when remembered unless close to the next scheduled time.

Overdose

Overdose can cause severe drowsiness, hallucinations, or heart rhythm changes. Seek urgent care.

• British National Formulary — Meclozine — BNF (NICE)
• FDA drug information — Meclizine — U.S. Food & Drug Administration

Content last reviewed: 2025-01-01