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Treatment of Motion Sickness – Prescription Medications |
A number of effective treatments for motion sickness are available by prescription. Your
healthcare provider can help you determine which medication is right for you.
The scopolamine patch provides long-term relief of motion sickness, which is especially
helpful during extended travel, such as cruises. The patch is typically placed on clean,
dry skin behind the ear where it provides relief for dizziness, nausea, and vomiting for
up to 3 days. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the patch and avoid contact with
your eyes; scopolamine may cause temporary blurred vision if it comes in contact with
the eyes.
Side effects of scopolamine may include dry mouth, constipation, confusion, dizziness,
rash, and difficulty urinating. You should not take scopolamine if you have a history of
heart, liver, or kidney disease, glaucoma, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate,
breathing difficulties, or are pregnant or breast feeding. Alcohol, tranquilizers, and
other sedatives may increase drowsiness with this medication. Scopolamine is available in
tablet form as well.
Antiemetics are medications used to control nausea and vomiting. They can be
administered through oral tablets, liquids, or rectal suppositories. Granisetron,
promethazine, and prochlorperazine are a few examples of antiemetics. Side effects of
these medications may include drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, and confusion. You should
tell your healthcare provider about medical conditions you have and other medications
you may be taking before taking an antiemetic.
Sedatives
Sedatives are medications that may decrease fear and anxiety, two emotions that can
exacerbate motion sickness. Sedatives slow the body down and induce feelings of calm.
Some examples of sedatives include diazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam, and lorazepam.
These medications may make you very drowsy and decrease alertness. You should avoid
alcohol and other depressants while taking sedatives. Also, caution should be used
with sedatives because they can be habit-forming.
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