Available over the counter, Bonine
® (
meclizine hydrochloride) is an antihistamine medication that is approved for treating and preventing motion sickness. Specifically, it is used to help limit symptoms of motion sickness, such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
Bonine comes as a chewable tablet that is typically taken once a day. It usually works best if you take it before motion sickness symptoms begin, but you can still expect some relief even if you wait until symptoms develop. Taking Bonine one hour before your embarkation is usually sufficient to prevent motion sickness.
Bonine is part of a group of medications known as antihistamines, meaning that it blocks histamine receptors. However, it probably works for motion sickness by blocking acetylcholine receptors (by its "anticholinergic" activity), not by antihistamine activity.
(Click Bonine for more information about non-prescription Bonine, including a list of potential side effects that may occur and more details on when and how to take the drug.)
