Dimenhydrinate is an over-the-counter medical drug used to treat nausea and vomiting available in both Calm X tablets and liquid form. It is a combination of diphenhydramine and 8-chlorotheophylline, making it an antihistamine to alleviate motion sickness symptoms. Though the drug is solely designed for nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, it is also useful in related conditions. This drug is, however, not recommended for use in children unless prescribed by the doctor.
Other Uses of Dimenhydrinate
Typically, Calm X is used to treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness resulting from motion sickness. The drug can also relieve similar symptoms caused by inner ear problems, for instance, Meniere’s disease. These are some of the other uses of dimenhydrinate that aren’t listed in the instruction manual. Nevertheless, it is important to use the drug for the intended purpose of the best outcome.
How to Use Dimenhydrinate
Dimenhydrinate can be purchased at any pharmacy; hence users should be cautious when using it to avoid instances of overdose and underdose. Notably, it is essential to follow the instructions provided on the product package. If the doctor prescribes this medication, it is vital to follow the directions specified. When buying the drug and unfamiliar with the usage, always consult a doctor for clarification.
The drug can either be taken by mouth with or without food while ensuring that a particular device or spoon measures the drug’s liquid form. If it is a chewable tablet, chew rigorously and swallow. Always take the dose of this drug an hour before engaging in activities such as traveling. However, it should be noted that the dosage depends on the age, treatment response, and medical condition of the user. Consult the doctor if the condition worsens while under medication of Calm X drugs.
Side Effects
Calm X prescriptions accompany multiple side effects which vary between the user and can be corrected in distinctive ways. Some of the typical side effects reported include drowsiness, dry mouth, nose or throat, blurred vision, and constipation. In case these effects persist or become severe, it is advisable to consult a specialist or pharmacist immediately.
Yet, dry mount effects can be corrected by sucking sugarless hard candies, drink water, or use saliva alternatives. It should be noted that a doctor’s medication can accompany these side effects but wear off faster. This is because the doctor often evaluates the risks associated before prescribing a given dosage. Besides, instances of serious side effects are usually rare when administered.
Side effects such as mood changes, difficult urinating, irregular heartbeat, and shaking are often severe and require a specialist’s attention. Very serious side effects include seizures, meaning the need for immediate medical assistance. Allergic reactions are rare when using Calm X but consult a doctor if itching, rash, trouble breathing, or severe dizziness occur. Other side effects not listed may also arise; hence crucial to always consult a doctor.
Precautions
Using dimenhydrinate requires the guidance of either a doctor or pharmacist before taking it. This helps in preventing instances of allergies associated with taking Calm X intending to treat motion sickness symptoms. The drug can contain inactive ingredients, which can become allergic to users or other associated problems. When buying over-the-counter, talk to the pharmacist to learn more about it.
Providing full medical history to the doctor, especially for patients with breathing problems, glaucoma, high blood pressure, seizures, or heart problems, is vital before taking this drug. Alcohol and marijuana users should also be cautious because the drug is characterized by drowsiness, which can intensify these substances. Avoid alcohol when under the use of Calm X and consult a doctor when using marijuana.
Tell the doctor when planning for surgery while patients suffering from diabetes and phenylketonuria should discuss with the doctor because chewable and liquid Calm X cite are sugary. Children are sensitive to dimenhydrinate hence can experience several related side effects, coupled with increased excitement levels.
Other adults can also be sensitive to these effects, more so trouble urinating, constipation, and drowsiness. Pregnant women only take this drug when precisely prescribed by a doctor. However, it is essential to discuss risks and benefits with the doctor. During breastfeeding, the drug passes to breast milk and the health of the infant. It is also a significant precautionary measure to take before taking Calm X tablets.
Interactions
Medical drug interaction may limit the functionality of prescribed medications or increases the risks of side effects. It is advisable to share all drugs being used before the doctor can prescribe a dose of Calm X. Some of the drugs that interact with dimenhydrinate readily include antihistamines applied to the skin, for instance, spray and diphenhydramine.
Others include drugs that cause drowsiness, such as alcohol, sleep and anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and other antihistamine forms like cetirizine. Labels of different medicines provide great insights regarding allergic reactions and drowsiness sensations. Enlightening the doctor or pharmacist about these drugs can help administer the right dose or recommend a substitute to avoid dangerous interactions.
Overdose
For any overdose cases from Calm X with the individual having several symptoms, it is essential to call 911. Local poison control centers also come useful in such cases, especially when the patient passes out, has difficulty breathing, or has severe seizures. Children with dimenhydrinate overdose may experience mental changes such as hallucination and restlessness.
If missed doses, the drug can be taken anytime, provided it isn’t closer to the next scheduled dose. Avoid doubling the amount if missed the last dose, and maintain routine medical and laboratory appointments. Store Calm X drugs at room temperatures away from light and moisture. Never store these drugs in the bathroom or freeze the medication. Keep it away from children and pets by discarding the product in secure places.
It is no secret that taking Calm X helps users treat various symptoms of motion sickness. However, it is imperative to learn more about this drug to avoid misuse, overdose, or incorrectly use, leading to adverse health effects. It is critical to always consult a doctor before taking this drug, especially for those allergic to dimenhydrinate. Besides, the doctor can prescribe the right amount based on the patient’s body response.
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