Cinnarizine
Cinnarizine is a class of antihistamine drugs that have a calming effect to reduce nausea and vomiting. When compared to other types of antihistamines, cinnarizine causes drowsiness. Cinnarizine is a prescription drug and is only available in tablet form.
Trade names of the drug: Cinnarizine, Brazine, Gleron, Merron 25, Nariz, Perifas, Riziven, Stugeron, and Vertizine.
Benefits of Cinnarizine
This medication is commonly used to prevent motion sickness, as well as to treat symptoms of Meniere’s disease, such as:
- Spinning sensation aka vertigo
- Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
- Nauseous.
Cinnarizine Side Effects
This medication can cause side effects such as tremors and can get worse if taken for a long time. Other potential side effects to watch out for include:
- Feeling sleepy.
- Stomach ache.
- Headache.
- Dry mouth.
- Weight gain.
- Sweating more than usual.
Cinnarizine Dosage
Ask your doctor to find out the dosage of cinnarizine. However, in general, the recommended dosage for treating Meniere’s disease is:
- Adults and children over 12 years: 2 tablets, 3 times daily, or as directed by a doctor.
- Children aged 5-12 years: Half the adult dose (one tablet divided three times daily), or as directed by your doctor.
Meanwhile, to prevent motion sickness, the recommended dosage is:
- Adults and children over 12 years: 2 tablets, taken 2 hours before travel and 1 tablet every 8 hours during travel, if needed.
- Children aged 5-12 years: Half the adult dose, 1 tablet, taken 2 hours before travel, then half a tablet every 8 hours during travel, maximum 3 times a day.
How to Use Cinnarizine
Consume cinnarizine according to the doctor’s instructions and the instructions for use listed on the packaging label. Do not increase, decrease, or stop the dose without your doctor’s permission.
Take cinnarizine tablets after meals, with water. If symptoms persist after taking this medication, consult your doctor.
Cautions for Using Cinnarizine
Cinnarizine can be consumed by children aged 5 years and above to adults. However, it is best to consult a doctor if you suffer from the following conditions:
- Allergy to cinnarizine or history of other drugs in the past.
- Problems urinating.
- Epilepsy or other health problems that cause seizures.
- Suffering from glaucoma, damage to the optic nerve due to pressure on the eyeball.
- Parkinson’s disease. Cinnarizine may worsen the symptoms of this disease.
- Undergoing or about to undergo allergy testing.
Cinnarizine may affect the results of allergy tests. You may need to stop taking it a few days before the test.
Cinnarizine Interactions
Some medications may interact with cinnarizine and increase the chance of side effects. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking medications that increase drowsiness, dry mouth, or make it difficult to urinate. Taking them with cinnarizine may make these effects worse.
Cinnarizine Contraindications
Avoid using cinnarizine if you have an allergy (hypersensitivity) to this drug or any of its ingredients. Someone who has a hereditary metabolic disorder called porphyria should also refrain from consuming cinnarizine.