Medicines can be used to prevent or treat motion sickness, although many of them cause drowsiness. Talk to a healthcare professional to decide if you should take medicines for motion sickness. Commonly used medicines are diphenhydramine (Benadryl), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), and scopolamine.
The most frequently used antihistamines to treat motion sickness include cyclizine, dimenhydrinate, meclizine, and promethazine (oral and suppository); nonsedating antihistamines appear to be less effective.
Many people turn to natural remedies to manage motion sickness. Research shows that ginger and chamomile, as a tea or other beverage or in a hard candy, can help fend off nausea. Some people swear by anti-nausea wristbands, which trigger an acupuncture pressure point and are widely available over the counter.
But if you'd like to try overcoming motion sickness for good, here are some techniques. Take control of the situation. Curb your consumption. Get into position. Equalize your sensory cues. Talk yourself down. Get desensitized. Pre-treat with ginger. Get in touch with your pressure points.
However, many studies show that as a whole, Dramamine is more effective at preventing motion sickness. It's less convenient because of the dosing increments. Another option is scopolamine, which is commonly known as the round patch placed behind one's ear.
If possible, try lying down, shutting your eyes, sleeping, or looking at the horizon. Stay hydrated by drinking water. Limit alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. Eat small amounts of food frequently.
Dramamine has an average rating of 9.0 out of 10 from a total of 51 ratings on Drugs. 88% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 6% reported a negative effect. Zofran has an average rating of 8.0 out of 10 from a total of 268 ratings on Drugs.
Scopolamine (Transderm Scop). Most commonly prescribed medication for motion sickness. You have to take it before symptoms start.
These are the most commonly used medications for motion sickness, and they're available in any drug store and in many supermarkets. Cyclizine (Marezine) and dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) are two major ones.