Cyclizine

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking cyclizine.

Who should not take cyclizine?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• kidney or liver disease,

• an enlarged prostate,

• difficulty urinating,

• bladder problems, or

• glaucoma.

You may not be able to take cyclizine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Cyclizine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take cyclizine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether cyclizine passes into breast milk. Do not take cyclizine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Cyclizine is not recommended for use by children younger than 12 years of age.

How should I take cyclizine?

Take cyclizine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Cyclizine usually is taken approximately 30 minutes before travel and then every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 200 mg of this medication in 1 day.

Store cyclizine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

See also: Cyclizine dosage (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a cyclizine overdose include drowsiness, agitation, excitability, seizures or convulsions, hallucinations, and death.

What should I avoid while taking cyclizine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Cyclizine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking cyclizine.

Cyclizine side effects

Stop taking cyclizine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take cyclizine and talk to your doctor if you experience

• drowsiness;

• restlessness, excitation, nervousness, or insomnia;

• blurred vision;

• dry mouth, nose, or throat;

• decreased appetite, nausea, or vomiting;

• difficulty urinating; or

• an irregular or fast heartbeat.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. 

Cyclizine Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Motion Sickness:

50 mg orally 30 minutes prior to departure. The dosage may be repeated every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 200 mg/24 hours.

Usual Adult Dose for Nausea/Vomiting:

50 mg orally or intramuscularly every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
The daily dose should not exceed 200 mg.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Motion Sickness:

13 to 18 years: 50 mg orally up to 4 times a day.
6 to 12 years: 25 mg orally up to 3 times a day.

What other drugs will affect cyclizine?

Cyclizine may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with cyclizine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.