Motion Sickness

Motion sickness is common and can be very distressing. It is usually triggered by movement.  Apart from vehicular transport it can even result from movement due to snorkelling. Luckily most people gain a degree of tolerance over a period of time.  Symptoms vary, but it usually starts with increased salivation and nausea. Sighing and yawning are common together with a feeling of extreme lethargy. Pallor and cold sweat often precede vomiting.

Prevention should be aimed at reducing the effect of movement on your sensory system.

• Locate yourself in the middle of a boat, front of a car, bus, train etc
• If possible, assume a semi-lying position to minimise movement
• Avoid stooping down.
• Restrict visual cues. Focus on a distant spot – avoid reading or watching moving objects
• Have fresh air ventilated towards you if possible
• Eat small snacks and often

Most medications for motion sickness can cause drowsiness.  A pharmacist should be consulted on which medication might be best for you.

Hyoscine hydrobromide 300 micrograms = Kwells

Adults: 1 tablet starting 30 minutes before travel and 6 hrly as needed.  Side effects include dry mouth, visual disturbances, fast heart rate, sleepiness and constipation.

Dimenhydrinate 50mg = Dramamine

Adults: 50-100mg 6 hrly to a maximum of 400mg per 24 hrs.  Can cause sleepiness.

The proprietary brand Travacalm comes in 2 forms.  One is “natural” which contains only ginger, while Travacalm original is a combination of Dimenhydrinate, Hyoscine and Caffeine.

Cyclizine 50mg = Nausicalm

Adults: 25mg (half to one tablet) orally 1- 2 hours before travel and then 8 hrly as required.

Promethazine HCL = Phenergan

Adults: 25mg orally 1-2 hrs before travel

Cinnarizine 30mg = Stugeron 

Not available in Australia but available in the UK. It is also available in many European countries and can also be sourced in Ushuaia, just before cruising to Antarctica. It is less sedating than dimenhydrinate and promethazine. Adult dose: Take 30mg 1-2 hrs before travel and 15 mg every 8 hours for the first 24-48 hrs.