Antivert

Antivert is an antihistamine medication approved to treat vertigo and to treat and prevent motion sickness. When used for motion sickness or vertigo, this drug requires a prescription. However, there are over-the-counter versions available for motion sickness only. The medicine comes in tablet form and is typically taken once or twice a day.

What Is Antivert?

Antivert® (meclizine hydrochloride) is a medication used to treat vertigo and to treat and prevent motion sickness. It is available both with a prescription (for motion sickness or vertigo) or without a prescription (for motion sickness only).
 
(Click Antivert Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Antivert Work?

Antivert belongs to a class of drugs called antihistamines, meaning that it blocks histamine receptors. However, it probably works for motion sickness by blocking acetylcholine receptors (by its "anticholinergic" activity).
 

When and How to Take It

Some general considerations include the following:
 
  • This medication comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth once or twice a day.
     
  • It does not matter if you take Antivert with food or on an empty stomach. If the medication seems to bother your stomach, try taking it with a little food.
     
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as directed.
     

Antivert Dosing Information

The dose of Antivert your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • How you respond to Antivert
  • The medical condition being treated
  • Other medications you are taking
  • Other medical conditions you may have.
     
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Antivert Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects

As with any medicine, Antivert can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience bothersome side effects. Some people tolerate it quite well.
 
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Possible side effects of Antivert include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision.
     
(Click Antivert Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Antivert can potentially interact with several other medicines (see Antivert Drug Interactions).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking It?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Antivert Warnings and Precautions to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

What If I Take an Overdose?

An overdose with Antivert can cause serious problems. If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
 
(Click Meclizine Overdose for more information.)
 

How Should Antivert Be Stored?

Antivert should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

For people who take this medication on a regular schedule, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of the medication.
 

Strengths

Antivert tablets come in the following strengths:
 
  • Antivert 12.5 mg
  • Antivert 25 mg
  • Antivert 50 mg.
     

Generic Availability of Antivert

Antivert is available in generic form (see Generic Meclizine for more information).
 
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