Benadryl for motion sickness?

[Interpol]

Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are closely related; in fact, Dramamine partly consists of a salt of Benadryl. As a result, they have similar modes of action - they both cross the blood-brain barrier and have anticholinergic properties, which is what helps prevent motion sickness. Unfortunately, the anticholinergic properties of both drugs are what also causes the drowsiness.

As for one of the previous posts mentioning Claritin: although Claritin is an antihistamine, it doesn't cross the blood-brain barrier, which is why it doesn't cause drowsiness, and thus also doesn't affect the nausea center in the brain. I definitely would NOT recommend using Claritin for motion sickness.

Additionally: I should point out that there's a difference between motion sickness and vomiting. If you're already puking from motion sickness, then there's a less likely chance that taking anti-motion-sickness meds like Dramamine will help. The goal is to PREVENT motion sickness before you actually get sick.

 

[Interpol]

My DD (10) is very prone to motion sickness. I called the pediatrician today and he said to give her Benadryl and if that didn't work to go with Dramamine. Has anyone ever used Benadryl for motion sickness. I am afraid that if I give it to her during the day that she will be drowsy. If I give it to her at night will it still work for the next day? Any thoughts?

If you plan on giving Dramamine or Benadryl to your daughter, it's the times when she's drowsy that should be the indication the medication is doing its job. "Sleeping it off" won't help.

 

[Carol G]

rule to follow:

Before taking any OTC meds, natural forms (ginger) OR other types ~ please check with your Dr. since you are at a great risk, especially if you have any medical problems or take medications. Because one person suggests it, that doesn't mean to try it.

I know everyone looks out for one another. but they need to see the Dr before the cruise. Better safe than sorry. :

Thanks for your ideas.

 

[akka4]

To avoid all medications we used the motion sickness wrist bands. I bought both my daughters a simple kind that just put pressure on the wrist. I bought the Relief Band which actually puts a small electric pulse through your wrist. They both worked wonders!! When I started to feel queasy, I would just turn up the pulse. What a lifesaver! No side affects, no medication and you can put it on and take it off whenever you'd like. It works within minutes of putting it on. Best things I ever bought for our cruise!

 

[cheermom4ever]

I also vote for the motion sickness wrist bands. They really work and you don't have to worry about side affects. They even come in different colors so you can match to your outfit.

 

[bytheblood]

My biggest concern would be drowsiness. Perhaps you can give it to her a few times at home before you go to see how it affects her.

I recommend ginger capsules. They are natural and it truly works. My suggestion would be to phone her doctor and ask about that.