Dramamine is formulated from the generic drug dimenhydrinate and is useful for alleviating symptoms of motion sickness (kinetosis) such as nausea and vomiting. Dramamine for kids is usually available in chewable grape-flavored pills or tablets and is often used as an over-the-counter drug (1). Dimenhydrinate, a first-generation drug, consists of diphenhydramine and 8-chlorotheophylline with antihistamine properties. The medicine works by reversing histamine’s effects that trigger the allergic reaction, leading to vomiting (2). This post will help you understand the safety profile of Dramamine for kids.

Safety Of Dramamine For Children

Dramamine is considered safe for children aged two and above. It must not be used for children below two years unless prescribed by a pediatrician.You are advised to always consult a doctor before prescribing Dramamine to your child (3).

Dramamine Dosage For Children

Dramamine can be used to prevent an episode of motion sickness if your child takes a dose 30 minutes to one hour before travel. The recommended dosage is as follows (3). It is advisable to start with the lowest dose and increase it only if it does not work. Also, read the labels carefully before prescribing Dramamine to children.

Dramamine’s Mechanism Of Action

Uneasiness, nausea, and vomiting during traveling are the common symptoms of motion sickness. The brain maintains the body’s balance by analyzing signals from different body areas such as the eyes, inner ear (vestibule), intestine, and various motion-sensitive subcutaneous tissues (proprioceptors). Any mismatch can cause motion sickness. Neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, histamine, serotonin, glycine, and noradrenaline help forward mismatched signals to the vomiting center in the brain stem. Dimenhydrinate can block the central effects of both histamine and acetylcholine to act as an antiemetic (a drug that prevents vomiting). Additionally, it may prevent spasms in the gut by blocking the action of histamine on the intestinal muscles. However, the exact mechanism is unknown (4)(5).

Dramamine Side Effects In Children

As with most medications, Dramamine has side effects. The most common side effects in children include (4)

Drowsiness.

Dizziness.

Muscle weakness.

The less common ones include

Increased excitement.

Restlessness.

Dry mouth and nasal passages.

Blocked nose. Image: Shutterstock

Blurry vision.

Increased heartbeat.

Consult your healthcare provider if any of these side effects become severe or your child experiences some other adverse effects.

Drug Interactions With Dramamine

Some drugs may cause unwanted or dangerous effects when administered with Dramamine. Talk to your doctor if your child is on the following medications (6)(7).

Anti-allergy or cold medications, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec)

Antidepressants, such as sertraline (Zoloft)

Antianxiety drugs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) Image: Shutterstock

Antiepileptic drugs, such as valproate (Depakene)

These medications may depress the central nervous system and increase the severity of side effects encountered with Dramamine.

Precautions To Take When Using Dramamine

Dramamine is a non-prescription medication readily available in any pharmacy. However, take the following precautions when administering it to your child (3)(8).

Always consult your pediatrician before giving Dramamine if your child has breathing disorders, such as asthma or seizures.

Seek medical advice if your child has recently undergone any surgery, including dental surgery.

Ensure your child is not allergic to dimenhydrinate or any other inactive ingredient of Dramamine (aspartame, citric acid, magnesium stearate, methacrylic acid copolymer, sorbitol).

Do not use it if the blister pack has been tampered with. Store Dramamine at room temperature (20°C to 25°C).

Ensure the child chews the tablet before swallowing it.

The medication should be used under medical supervision if the child has phenylketonuria (an inherited condition that requires diet restrictions). Dramamine chewable tablets contain aspartame as a sweetener, which converts to phenylalanine. Image: Shutterstock

Dramamine affects alertness in children. So, ensure they avoid activities such as cycling or skateboarding.

Consult with your pharmacist before giving any other OTC drug or any herbal preparation.

Keep Dramamine out of children’s reach.

Symptoms Of Dramamine Overdose

Children may accidentally overdose on Dramamine. In such a case, watch out for the following symptoms (6).

Dilated pupils

Seizures

Hallucination

Extreme drowsiness Image: Shutterstock

Irritation and restlessness

Dramamine can alter the actions of many neurotransmitters and cause these effects. Seek emergency medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms in your child.

References:

Viral Rash In Children: Types, Pictures, Treatment And Prevention How Much Calcium Do Children Need? Supplements And Food Sources Underage Drinking: Reasons, Consequences, Prevention And Treatment Asthma In Children: Causes, Risks, Symptoms, Treatment And Prevention