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Who Cannot take Dramamine?

Understanding Who Should Avoid Dramamine
Dramamine, a popular medication primarily used to prevent and treat motion sickness, is generally considered safe for many individuals. However, there are specific groups of people who should exercise caution or avoid its use altogether due to potential health risks and interactions.
1. Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions
People with specific medical conditions should refrain from taking Dramamine. This includes those with glaucoma, as the medication can increase intraocular pressure, potentially worsening the condition. Additionally, individuals with prostate enlargement or urinary retention may experience exacerbated symptoms due to the anticholinergic effects of Dramamine, which can lead to difficulty urinating.
2. Pregnant and Nursing Women
While some studies suggest that Dramamine may be safe during pregnancy, it is always best for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider before taking any medication. The effects on the fetus are not fully understood, and caution is advised. Similarly, nursing mothers should discuss the use of Dramamine with their doctors, as it can pass into breast milk.
3. Children and Elderly Patients
Dramamine is not recommended for very young children, particularly those under the age of two, due to the risk of severe side effects. For older adults, the sedative effects of Dramamine can be more pronounced, increasing the risk of falls and other accidents. Therefore, elderly patients should use this medication under strict medical supervision.
4. Individuals Taking Certain Medications
Dramamine can interact negatively with various medications, including benzodiazepines, opioids, and alcohol, which can enhance sedative effects and lead to respiratory depression. Those on these medications should avoid taking Dramamine unless directed by a healthcare professional. Furthermore, individuals taking other antihistamines should also be cautious, as combining these can lead to increased side effects.
5. People with Allergies to Ingredients
Lastly, anyone with a known allergy to dimenhydrinate or any of the inactive ingredients in Dramamine should avoid its use. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may include symptoms such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
Conclusion
While Dramamine is effective for many, it is crucial for certain individuals to avoid its use or consult a healthcare provider before taking it. Those with specific medical conditions, pregnant or nursing women, young children, the elderly, and individuals on certain medications should all approach this medication with caution. Always prioritize safety and consult a healthcare professional when in doubt.

When should you not use Dramamine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  1. glaucoma.
  2. lung or breathing disease, like asthma.
  3. problems urinating.
  4. prostate disease.
  5. stomach or intestine problems.
  6. an unusual or allergic reaction to meclizine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
  7. pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
  8. breast-feeding.

Does Dramamine interact with high blood pressure medication?

Lisinopril and dimenhyDRINATE may have additive effects in lowering your blood pressure. You may experience headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and/or changes in pulse or heart rate.

Is there a downside to taking Dramamine?

Problems with Dramamine include possible side effects such as drowsiness, headache, hyperactivity (more likely in children), worsening dizziness, nausea, coordination difficulties, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, dry mouth, and fainting.

Can I take Dramamine with anti anxiety meds?

The use of Dramamine in conjunction with opioid pain medications and other medications for anxiety or depression can also increase the risk of negative side effects. Dramamine does carry a risk of overdose.

Is Dramamine bad for your stomach?

Burning feeling in mouth/throat, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or heartburn may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

What medications can you not take with Dramamine?

Dramamine can interact with anxiety medications, sleep aids, and antihistamines. It can also interact with opioids, alcohol, and muscle relaxants. You can avoid Dramamine interactions by talking to your healthcare provider or pharmacist first.

Why is meclizine a high risk medication?

Meclizine is highly anticholinergic; its clearance reduced with advanced age, and tolerance develops when used as hypnotic. Its use in geriatric patients increases the risk of confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and other anticholinergic effects or toxicities [16].

Who should not take motion sickness pills?

People with a history of the following medical conditions should use caution and speak with their health care provider before taking medications for motion sickness:

  • glaucoma.
  • liver impairment.
  • asthma.
  • seizures.
  • prostate enlargements or urinary blockage.
  • thyroid dysfunction.
  • heart disease.
  • women who are pregnant.

Why shouldn’t people over 65 take meclizine?

The American Geriatric Society (AGS) has placed meclizine on the Beers list of medications to avoid in patient over 65 years old because of the strong anticholinergic properties resulting in increased risk of confusion, falls/fractures, and overall mortality.

Can you take Dramamine with a heart condition?

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: bleeding problems, diabetes, gallstones, heart problems.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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