Pet Medication 101: Dramamine

1. Drug Name:

dimenhydrinate

2. Brand Names:

Dramamine, Gravol, Travtabs, Driminate, Triptone

3. How Dispensed:

Over the counter

4. Forms:

50mg tablet, 50mg chewable tablet, 50mg/mL injectable solution

5. Drug Type/Class:

Histamine-1 blocker

6. Uses in Dogs and Cats:

Motion sickness, nausea, vestibular disease

7. How it Works:

While the exact mechanism of action is unknown, dimenhydrinate is thought to reduce equilibrium disturbances through antimuscarinic effects in the nervous system and histamine H1 antagonism.

8. Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdose:

Sleepiness, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite. Signs of overdose include excitement, incoordination, disorientation, seizures, coma.

9. Drug Interactions:

• Anticholinergic drugs (ex. Atropine, Glycopyrrolate)

• Central nervous system depressants (ex. Benzodiazepines, Barbiturates)

• Tricyclic antidepressants (ex. Amitriptyline, Doxepin)

10. Cautionary Statements:

• Never give your pet Dramamine without the approval of your veterinarian.

• Do not use in neonatal pets.

• Use with caution in pets with glaucoma, seizures, elevated thyroid levels, heart disease, high blood pressure, enlarged prostate, GI or urinary blockage, and respiratory disease.

• Use with caution in geriatric, pregnant, or nursing pets.

• Can alter skin testing for allergen-specific immunotherapy.

Read more:

Your Complete Guide to Vomiting in Cats

Everything You Need to Know About Vomiting in Dogs

Vestibular Disease in Dogs

Have more questions about Dramamine or other medications for your pet?

Schedule a video consult to speak with one of our vets.