All of those drugs are antihistamines, a class of medicines sometimes used to staunch the
flow of runny noses. They all come with some side effects as well, which can include dry
mouth and blurred vision. The most common complaint is drowsiness, so don't combine
them with any other sedative. They work best when taken at least a half-hour before the
motion begins, and some are available in special preparations, such as syrups.
Before you go traveling, it's a good idea to give your child a test of any medication you
plan to use on your trip; that way you can make sure there are no unpleasant side effects.
If your child has glaucoma or a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic
bronchitis, talk with his doctor before giving him any of the above drugs.
There are anecdotal reports that some do. For centuries sailors have chewed ginger to
soothe their seasickness, but the few scientific studies on ginger's anti-nausea properties
have shown mixed success. Although there have been no published experiments
involving children, experts say that ginger tea is safe for children (although not for
infants). If you want to try it, dissolve 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of powdered ginger in a cup of
hot water, or boil two slices of fresh ginger root (each about 1/8 of an inch thick) to one
cup of water for about 10 minutes. Sweeten to taste, and offer small sips throughout the
day.
You could also try giving your child a sip or two of peppermint or chamomile tea, which
has long been used to relieve stomach upset. And some people have found a traditional
remedy -- giving crackers to settle the stomach -- effective as well.
By Laird Harrison / CONSUMER HEALTH INTERACTIVE
Over-the-counter drugs used to deter and/or treat mal de mer include Dramamine,
Meclizine (common name Bonine) or diphenhydramine (commonly known as Benadryl).
The following OTC drugs consist of ingredients that have been considered safe and
effective for the treatment of motion sickness by the Food and Drug Administration:
•
Marezine (and others). Includes the active ingredient cyclizine and is not for use
in children under age six years.
•
Benadryl (and others). Includes the active ingredient diphenhydramine and is not
for use in children under age six years.
•
Dramamine (and others). Includes the active ingredient dimenhydrinate and is not
for use in children under age two years.
•
Bonine (and others). Includes the active ingredient meclizine and is not for use in
children under age 12 years.
Another prescription drug that is sometimes given for motion sickness is
ondansetron
(Zofran), which was originally developed to treat nausea associated with
cancer
