Synonyms in a broader sense
Dimenhydrinate, H1-receptor blocker, antihistamine, antiemetic Other trade names: Vomacur, Reisefit, travel tablets, travel gold, Arlevert
Introduction
Vomex® is the trade name of a drug containing the active ingredient dimenhydrinate. Dimenhydrinate is a combination of the two individual components diphenhydramine and 8-chlorotheophylline. It is mainly used to treat nausea and vomiting, from where it gets its name (to vomit).
It can also be used as a sedative. The actual effect is based on diphenhydramine; the 8-chlorotheophylline serves to alleviate the fatigue caused by diphenhydramine and acts similar to caffeine. Dimenhydrinate (Vomex®) is available in various preparations and dosages:
- Sugar-coated tablet
- Syrup
- Solution for spraying as an alternative for severe gagging
- Tablets: can be taken with or without meals.
- Chewing tablets: Frequently used for travel sickness.
- Suppositories: for use in the rectum. The suppository must be inserted into the anus. A particular advantage is that it is easier to use in children and as an alternative for severe gagging and vomiting in adults.
Dosage
Suppositories:- Infants 8-15kg: 1 suppository (40mg each) per day- Children 15-25kg: up to 2 suppositories (40mg each) per day- School children >25kg: up to 3 suppositories (40mg each) per day- the stronger suppository forte (70mg) can be given from 15kg onwards- Adolescents from 14 years of age and adults: 1-2 suppositories (150 mg) per dayDragees (50mg):- Children 6-14 years: 1-3 times per day 1 dragee – Adults and adolescents from 14 years of age can take 1-2 dragees 1-4 times per dayRetard capsules (150mg):These capsules have the advantage that they work delayed and slightly longer. However, this makes them less suitable for acute nausea. From the age of 14, 1 capsule can be taken 1-2 times a day.
Application
Vomex® is most often used as a preventive measure against travel sickness (for example, nausea during car journeys). It should not be taken by the driver, as Vomex® makes tired (sedative effect). Dimenhydrinate is also found as an active ingredient in numerous other “travel tablets”.
Vomex® can also be given for other types of nausea and vomiting. For the prevention and treatment of nausea during chemotherapy it should not be given alone, as it does not have sufficient effect in this situation. Also in cases of dizziness, it may in some cases bring relief from nausea and discomfort.
So-called antihistaminergic effects occur as undesirable effects. Vomex® has an overall dampening effect on the higher functions of the brain, which can lead to a general slowing down of the ability to react. Due to drowsiness and reduced reactivity no vehicles (cars!)
and dangerous machines should be used. The appetite may increase. In addition, so-called anticholinergic effects can occur.
These include dry mouth, palpitations, dilated pupils and visual disturbances, problems with urination. Constipation or diarrhea are also possible. These side effects are more common in older people.
In addition, a drop in blood pressure may occur. Especially patients with a so-called “Long QT syndrome” may suffer from cardiac arrhythmia. Therefore, people with such a disease should refrain from taking it.
Vomex® may have a hallucinogenic effect in case of overdoses. Chewing the tablets may cause short-term numbness in the mouth. In children a paradoxical arousal with overactivity may occur (paradoxical because Vomex® tends to promote sleep in adults).