Cyclizine
NA
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Cyclizine
Summary
Cyclizine is primarily used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting. This includes motion sickness, nausea and vomiting caused by narcotic analgesics and general anesthetics, and vomiting associated with radiotherapy. It may also help relieve vomiting and vertigo associated with Meniere's disease and other vestibular disturbances.
Cyclizine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic and antiemetic properties. It works by blocking histamine H1 receptors, increasing lower esophageal sphincter tone, and reducing the sensitivity of the labyrinthine apparatus. These actions help prevent nausea and vomiting.
For adults and children over 12 years, the usual dose is 50 mg orally, which may be repeated up to three times a day. For children aged 6 to 12 years, the dose is 25 mg orally, which may also be repeated up to three times a day. Cyclizine is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.
Common side effects of Cyclizine include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and constipation. Serious adverse effects can include hypersensitivity reactions, tachycardia, and urinary retention.
Cyclizine is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug or its excipients and in cases of acute alcohol intoxication. It should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, gastrointestinal obstruction, hepatic disease, and certain cardiovascular conditions. Cyclizine may also interact with alcohol and other CNS depressants.
Indications and Purpose
How does Cyclizine work?
Cyclizine is a histamine H1 receptor antagonist that possesses anticholinergic and antiemetic properties. It increases lower esophageal sphincter tone and reduces the sensitivity of the labyrinthine apparatus, which helps prevent nausea and vomiting. Cyclizine may also inhibit the emetic center in the midbrain, further reducing nausea and vomiting.
Is Cyclizine effective?
Cyclizine is a histamine H1 receptor antagonist with anticholinergic and antiemetic properties. It is effective in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting from various causes, including motion sickness and post-operative nausea. Cyclizine increases lower esophageal sphincter tone and reduces labyrinthine sensitivity, which helps prevent nausea and vomiting.
What is Cyclizine?
Cyclizine is used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness, narcotic analgesics, and post-operative conditions. It works as a histamine H1 receptor antagonist with anticholinergic and antiemetic properties, increasing lower esophageal sphincter tone and reducing labyrinthine sensitivity. This helps prevent nausea and vomiting from various causes.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Cyclizine?
Cyclizine is typically used for short-term relief of nausea and vomiting. The duration of use depends on the condition being treated, such as motion sickness or post-operative nausea. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How do I take Cyclizine?
Cyclizine can be taken with or without food. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. There are no specific food restrictions mentioned, but it is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Cyclizine due to potential interactions.
How long does it take for Cyclizine to start working?
Cyclizine typically starts working within 30 minutes of oral administration. Its effects are maximal within 1-2 hours and can last for 4-6 hours. It is recommended to take Cyclizine about one to two hours before travel to prevent motion sickness.
How should I store Cyclizine?
Cyclizine should be stored in its original packaging to protect it from light. It should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
What is the usual dose of Cyclizine?
For adults and children over 12 years, the usual dose is 50 mg orally, which can be repeated up to three times a day. For children aged 6 to 12 years, the dose is 25 mg orally, which can also be repeated up to three times a day. Cyclizine is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Cyclizine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Cyclizine is excreted in human milk, but the amount has not been quantified. Due to the lack of definitive data on its safety during breastfeeding, it is advisable for nursing mothers to consult their healthcare provider before using Cyclizine to assess potential risks to the infant.
Can Cyclizine be taken safely while pregnant?
The use of Cyclizine during pregnancy is not advised due to the absence of definitive human data. Some animal studies suggest potential teratogenic effects, but their relevance to humans is unknown. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using Cyclizine to weigh the potential risks and benefits.
Can I take Cyclizine with other prescription drugs?
Cyclizine may have additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants, such as hypnotics, tranquillisers, and anaesthetics. It can enhance the soporific effect of pethidine and counteract the benefits of opioid analgesics. Cyclizine may also enhance the side effects of other anticholinergic drugs and mask the warning signs of ototoxic drugs.
Is Cyclizine safe for the elderly?
There have been no specific studies of Cyclizine in the elderly, but experience suggests that the normal adult dosage is appropriate. However, elderly patients should use Cyclizine with caution, especially if they have conditions like glaucoma, urinary retention, or heart issues. It is important for elderly patients to consult their healthcare provider before using Cyclizine.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Cyclizine?
Drinking alcohol while taking Cyclizine can increase the toxicity of alcohol due to Cyclizine's anti-emetic properties. This combination can be particularly dangerous, as Cyclizine may enhance the effects of alcohol and other central nervous system depressants. It is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Cyclizine.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Cyclizine?
Cyclizine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and incoordination, which could potentially limit the ability to exercise safely. If you experience these side effects, it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities or exercise until you know how the medication affects you. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Who should avoid taking Cyclizine?
Cyclizine is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug or its excipients and in cases of acute alcohol intoxication. It should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, heart failure, and other conditions. Cyclizine may interact with alcohol and other CNS depressants, increasing their effects. It should be avoided in porphyria and used cautiously in the elderly.
