Antivert

Antivert is an anti-emetic drug which works to block the signals to the brain that cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

This drug is useful mainly in motion sickness and to a lesser extent in morning sickness, postoperative and some other forms of vomiting. However, it is less sedative and longer-acting anti-emetic that protects against sea sickness for nearly 24 hours.

Meclizine blocks the vasopressor response to histamine and has a slight blocking action against acetylcholine. It decreases the excitability of the middle ear labyrinth and blocks conduction in the middle ear vestibular-cerebellar pathways. Thus, it is also used for vertigo and vestibular disorder.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Capsule
• Tablet
• Tablet, Chewable

Before using Antivert, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. The suitable drug therapy is chosen by a doctor with the active participation of the patient.

There are some important factors such as drug interactions, the presence of any metabolic impairment, history of hypersensitivity reaction, pregnancy, lactation etc. that may alter the desired therapeutic effects of a medicine.
Sometimes the presence of other health disorders affects the beneficial effects of this medicine and even may cause serious toxic effects.

If you have had any allergic reactions to any medicine then you must tell your doctor about that. The use of meclizine is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to it.

Further, make sure you inform your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Asthma 
• Enlarged prostate 
• Glaucoma 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease

In addition, certain medicines should not be used along with this medicine. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor if you are in need of some other medications or even any over-the-counter medicine for another health problem in order to avoid unwanted toxic effects.

Besides, it should be kept in mind that meclizine provides additive effects when simultaneously used with CNS depressants, neuroleptics, anticholinergic, and/or alcohol.

Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.

Thus, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and caution is recommended when it is used in lactating women.

To use Antivert properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor. The dosage schedule and the duration of drug therapy generally depend on upon the particular medical problem for which you are going to use this medicine. The therapeutic dose may also vary with the patient’s condition or requirement and the strength of the medicine as well.

For nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness:

• Adults & Children of >12 years— 25 to 50 mg orally once a day as needed. Meclizine should be administered one hour prior to travel and continued for the duration of exposure.
• Children younger than 12 years of age— Use is not recommended.

For vertigo:

• Adults and Children of >12 years— 25 mg orally 1 to 4 times a day or 50 mg orally twice a day.
• Children younger than 12 years of age—Use is not recommended.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. But, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Further, it is advised to store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and direct light. All kinds of medicines should be kept out of the reach of children. However, outdated medicines should be disposed of by an appropriate way.

Before using Antivert, there are some precautions you must take. Firstly, regular visits to your doctor are recommended to check that this medicine is working properly or not.

Additionally, the following guidelines should be followed to prevent unwanted complications as well as for the better prognosis of the patients:

This medicine may impair the patient’s ability to perform hazardous activities requiring mental alertness or physical coordination (e.g. operating machinery, driving a motor vehicle). Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are drowsy or not alert.

Alcoholic beverages and other CNS depressants should be avoided while taking this medicine. Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds, sedatives, tranquilizers, antidepressants, narcotics, barbiturates, muscle relaxants, or anesthetics.

Due to its potential anticholinergic action, this drug should be used with caution in patients with enlargement of the prostate, asthma, or glaucoma.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Antivert. These side effects usually go away during the treatment episode as your body adjusts to the medicine. Your healthcare professional may advise you about the ways how to prevent or reduce those unwanted side effects.

Sometimes you may need to consult with the doctor immediately if you notice any of the following toxic effects, especially:

• Cough
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Fast heartbeat
• Hives
• Itching
• Shortness of breath
• Skin rash
• Tightness in the chest
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Blurred vision on rare occasions

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.