Products
Cinnarizine and dimenhydrinate are commercially available as a fixed combination in the form of tablets (Arlevert). The drug has been on the market in many countries since 2012. It was available earlier in Germany.
Structure and properties
The drug consists of 3 molecules in total. Dimenhydrinate is a combination of diphenhydramine and chlorotheophyllin.
Effects
The combination of the two agents (ATC N07CA52) is antivertiginous and antiemetic. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic and depressant properties that has predominantly central vestibular effects. Cinnarizine is a calcium channel blocker with peripheral-vestibular effects. Chlortheophylline is combined with diphenhydramine to counteract fatigue. Nevertheless, fatigue is a common side effect with diphenhydramine.
Indications
For a maximum of 4 weeks for symptomatic treatment of transient dizziness.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is usually taken three times daily after meals with sufficient liquid.
Contraindications
Numerous precautions should be observed during use. Full details of interactions and precautions can be found in the Drug Information Leaflet.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include fatigue, drowsiness, headache, dry mouth, and abdominal pain. Occasionally, paresthesias, amnesia, tinnitus, tremor, nervousness, convulsions, dyspepsia, nausea, diarrhea, sweating, and skin rash are observed.
