What is dimenhydrinate?
dimenhydrinate (brand names: dramamine®, gravol®, travtabs®, driminate®, triptone®) is an antihistamine used to prevent motion sickness and to treat nausea, especially in dogs with vestibular disease. It has also been used for its sedative properties and to reduce itching associated with allergies.
its use in cats and dogs to treat nausea and motion sickness is ‘off label’ or ‘additional label’ . many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. in these cases, follow your veterinarian’s instructions and precautions very carefully, as their instructions may be significantly different from those on the label.
how is dimenhydrinate administered?
Dimenhydrinate is taken by mouth as a tablet or compound liquid. it can also be given as an injection in the hospital setting. can be administered with or without food; however, if vomiting occurs on an empty stomach, administer future doses with food. measure liquid forms carefully. if you are using dimenhydrinate for motion sickness while traveling, give this medication 30 to 60 minutes before travel. do not give any of the combination products; only give products that contain dimenhydrinate as the only active ingredient. Give free access to water while giving this medication.
this medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and clinical signs should improve.
what if I forget to give my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it when you remember, but if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and give it at the next scheduled time, and return to your regular dosing schedule. never give your pet two doses at once or give additional doses.
are there any potential side effects?
The most common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and trouble urinating. other less common side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. serious side effects include seizures and coma, and may indicate an overdose.
This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although the effects may be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Do not use dimenhydrinate on pets who are allergic to it or similar antihistamines. do not use on newborn pets or on pets undergoing antigen skin tests within the next two weeks. dimenhydrinate should be used with caution in pets with glaucoma, seizures, elevated thyroid levels, heart disease, high blood pressure, enlarged prostate, gastrointestinal or urinary obstruction, and respiratory disease. use with caution in geriatric, pregnant, or nursing pets, although use is likely safe.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
The following drugs should be used with caution when administered with dimenhydrinate: anticholinergic drugs, central nervous system depressants, or tricyclic antidepressants.
dimenhydrinate may also interact with antigen skin tests; stop at least 2 weeks before allergy test.
be sure to tell your vet about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) your pet is taking.
Are there any checks that need to be done with this medication?
No specific monitoring is necessary while your pet is taking this medication. your vet can monitor your pet to make sure the medication is working. monitor your pet for serious side effects.
how do I store dimenhydrinate?
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it from freezing in liquid form.
what should I do in an emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. if they are not available, follow their instructions for contacting an emergency center.
