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Motion sickness

Travel sickness.

Peer reviewed by Dr Hayley Willacy, FRCGP Last updated by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP Last updated 16 Mar 2023

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

In this series: Health advice for travel abroad Travelling to remote locations Ears and flying Jet lag Altitude sickness

Motion sickness (travel sickness) is common, especially in children. It is caused by repeated unusual movements during travelling, which send strong (sometimes confusing) signals to the balance and position sensors in the brain.

In this article :

What causes motion sickness, how long does motion sickness last, motion sickness symptoms, how to stop motion sickness, natural treatments for motion sickness, motion sickness medicines, what can a doctor prescribe for motion sickness, what should i do if i'm actually sick, what is mal de debarquement syndrome.

Continue reading below

Motion sickness is a normal response to repeated movements, such as going over bumps or around in a circle, send lots of messages to your brain. If you are inside a vehicle, particularly if you are focused on things that are inside the vehicle with you then the signals that your eyes send to the brain may tell it that your position is not changing, whilst your balance mechanisms say otherwise.

Your balance mechanisms in your inner ears sense different signals to those that your eyes are seeing which then sends your brain mixed, confusing messages. This confusion between messages then causes people to experience motion sickness.

Is motion sickness normal?

Motion sickness is a normal response that anyone can have when experiencing real or perceived motion. Although all people can develop motion sickness if exposed to sufficiently intense motion, some people are rarely affected while other people are more susceptible and have to deal with motion sickness very often.

Triggers for motion sickness

Motion sickness can also be triggered by anxiety or strong smells, such as food or petrol. Sometimes trying to read a book or a map can trigger motion sickness. Both in children and adults, playing computer games can sometimes cause motion sickness to occur.

Motion sickness is more common in children and also in women. Fortunately, many children grow out of having motion sickness. It is not known why some people develop motion sickness more than others. Symptoms can develop in cars, trains, planes and boats and on amusement park rides, etc.

Symptoms typically go when the journey is over; however, not always. In some people they last a few hours, or even days, after the journey ends.

There are various symptoms of motion sickness including::

Feeling sick (nausea and vomiting).

Sweating and cold sweats.

Increase in saliva.

Headaches .

Feeling cold and going pale.

Feeling weak.

Some general tips to avoid motion sickness include the following.

Prepare for your journey

Don't eat a heavy meal before travelling. Light, carbohydrate-based food like cereals an hour or two before you travel is best.

On long journeys, try breaking the journey to have some fresh air, drink some cold water and, if possible, take a short walk.

For more in-depth advice on travelling generally, see the separate leaflets called Health Advice for Travel Abroad , Travelling to Remote Locations , Ears and Flying (Aeroplane Ear) , Jet Lag and Altitude Sickness .

Plan where you sit

Keep motion to a minimum. For example, sit in the front seat of a car, over the wing of a plane, or on deck in the middle of a boat.

On a boat, stay on deck and avoid the cafeteria or sitting where your can smell the engines.

Breathe fresh air

Breathe fresh air if possible. For example, open a car window.

Avoid strong smells, particularly petrol and diesel fumes. This may mean closing the window and turning on the air conditioning, or avoiding the engine area in a boat.

Use your eyes and ears differently

Close your eyes (and keep them closed for the whole journey). This reduces 'positional' signals from your eyes to your brain and reduces the confusion.

Don't try to read.

Try listening to an audio book with your eyes closed. There is some evidence that distracting your brain with audio signals can reduce your sensitivity to the motion signals.

Try to sleep - this works mainly because your eyes are closed, but it is possible that your brain is able to ignore some motion signals when you are asleep.

Do not read or watch a film.

It is advisable not to watch moving objects such as waves or other cars. Don't look at things your brain expects to stay still, like a book inside the car. Instead, look ahead, a little above the horizon, at a fixed place.

If you are the driver you are less likely to feel motion sickness. This is probably because you are constantly focused on the road ahead and attuned to the movements that you expect the vehicle to make. If you are not, or can't be, the driver, sitting in the front and watching what the driver is watching can be helpful.

Treat your tummy gently

Avoid heavy meals and do not drink alcohol before and during travelling. It may also be worth avoiding spicy or fatty food.

Try to 'tame your tummy' with sips of a cold water or a sweet, fizzy drink. Cola or ginger ale are recommended.

Try alternative treatments

Sea-Bands® are acupressure bands that you wear on your wrists to put pressure on acupressure points that Chinese medicine suggests affects motion sickness. Some people find that they are effective.

Homeopathic medicines seem to help some people, and will not make you drowsy. The usual homeopathic remedy is called 'nux vom'. Follow the instructions on the packet.

All the techniques above which aim to prevent motion sickness will also help reduce it once it has begun. Other techniques, which are useful on their own to treat motion sickness but can also be used with medicines if required, are:

Breathe deeply and slowly and, while focusing on your breathing, listening to music. This has been proved to be effective in clinical trials.

Ginger - can improve motion sickness in some people (as a biscuit or sweet, or in a drink).

There are several motion sickness medicines available which can reduce, or prevent, symptoms of motion sickness. You can buy them from pharmacies or, in some cases, get them on prescription. They work by interfering with the nerve signals described above.

Medicines are best taken before the journey. They may still help even if you take them after symptoms have begun, although once you feel sick you won't absorb medicines from the stomach very well. So, at this point, tablets that you put against your gums, or skin patches, are more likely to be effective.

Hyoscine is usually the most effective medicine for motion sickness . It is also known as scopolamine. It works by preventing the confusing nerve messages going to your brain.

There are several brands of medicines which contain hyoscine - they also come in a soluble form for children. You should take a dose 30-60 minutes before a journey; the effect can last up to 72 hours. Hyoscine comes as a patch for people aged 10 years or over. (This is only available on prescription - see below.) Side-effects of hyoscine include dry mouth , drowsiness and blurred vision.

Side-effects of motion sickness medicines

Some medicines used for motion sickness may cause drowsiness. Some people are extremely sensitive to this and may find that they are so drowsy that they can't function properly at all. For others the effects may be milder but can still impair your reactions and alertness. It is therefore advisable not to drive and not to operate heavy machinery if you have taken them. In addition, some medicines may interfere with alcohol or other medication; your doctor or the pharmacist can advise you about this.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines can also be useful , although they are not quite as effective as hyoscine. However, they usually cause fewer side-effects. Several types of antihistamine are sold for motion sickness. All can cause drowsiness, although some are more prone to cause it than others; for example, promethazine , which may be of use for young children on long journeys, particularly tends to cause drowsiness. Older children or adults may prefer one that is less likely to cause drowsiness - for example, cinnarizine or cyclizine.

Remember, if you give children medicines which cause drowsiness they can sometimes be irritable when the medicines wear off.

See the separate article called How to manage motion sickness .

There are a number of anti-sickness medicines which can only be prescribed by your doctor. Not all of them always work well for motion sickness, and finding something that works may be a case of trial and error. All of them work best taken up to an hour before your journey, and work less well if used when you already feel sick. See also the separate leaflet called Nausea (Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment) for more detailed information about these medicines .

Hyoscine patch

Hyoscine, or scopolamine, patches are suitable for adults and for children over 10 years old. The medicine is absorbed through your skin, although this method of medicine delivery is slow so the patch works best if applied well before your journey.

You should stick the patch on to the skin behind the ear 5-6 hours before travelling (often this will mean late on the previous night) and remove it at the end of the journey.

Prochlorperazine

Prochlorperazine is a prescription-only medicine which works by changing the actions of the chemicals that control the tendency to be sick (vomit), in your brain. One form of prochlorperazine is Buccastem®, which is absorbed through your gums and does not need to be swallowed. Buccastem® tastes rather bitter but it can be effective for sickness when you are already feeling sick, as it doesn't have to be absorbed by the stomach.

Metoclopramide

Metoclopramide is a tablet used to speed up the emptying of your tummy. Slow emptying of the tummy is something that happens when you develop nausea and vomiting, so metoclopramide can help prevent this. It prevents nausea and vomiting quite effectively in some people. It can occasionally have unpleasant side-effects, particularly in children (in whom it is not recommended). Metoclopramide is often helpful for those who tend to have gastric reflux, those who have slow tummy emptying because of previous surgery, and those who have type 1 diabetes. Your GP will advise whether metoclopramide is suitable for you.

Domperidone

Domperidone , like metoclopramide, is sometimes used for sickness caused by slow tummy emptying. It is not usually recommended for motion sickness but is occasionally used if other treatments don't help. Domperidone is not a legal medicine in some countries, including the USA.

Ondansetron

Ondansetron is a powerful antisickness medicine which is most commonly used for sickness caused by chemotherapy, and occasionally used for morning sickness in pregnancy. It is not usually effective for motion sickness. This, and its relatively high cost means that it is not prescribed for motion sickness alone. However, for those undergoing chemotherapy, and for those who have morning sickness aggravated by travel, ondansetron may be helpful.

If you're actually sick you may find that this relieves your symptoms a little, although not always for very long. If you've been sick:

Try a cool flannel on your forehead, try to get fresh air on your face and do your best to find a way to rinse your mouth to get rid of the taste.

Don't drink anything for ten to twenty minutes (or it may come straight back), although (very) tiny sips of very cold water, coke or ginger ale may help.

After this, go back to taking all the prevention measures above.

Once you reach your destination you may continue to feel unwell. Sleep if you can, sip cold iced water, and - when you feel ready - try some small carbohydrate snacks. Avoid watching TV (more moving objects to watch!) until you feel a little better.

The sensation called 'mal de debarquement' (French for sickness on disembarking) refers to the sensation you sometimes get after travel on a boat, train or plane, when you feel for a while as though the ground is rocking beneath your feet. It is probably caused by the overstimulation of the balance organs during your journey. It usually lasts only an hour or two, but in some people it can last for several days, particularly after a long sea journey. It does not usually require any treatment.

Persistent mal de debarquement syndrome is an uncommon condition in which these symptoms may persist for months or years.

Dr Mary Lowth is an author or the original author of this leaflet.

Further reading and references

• Spinks A, Wasiak J ; Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011 Jun 15;(6):CD002851.
• Lackner JR ; Motion sickness: more than nausea and vomiting. Exp Brain Res. 2014 Aug;232(8):2493-510. doi: 10.1007/s00221-014-4008-8. Epub 2014 Jun 25.
• Leung AK, Hon KL ; Motion sickness: an overview. Drugs Context. 2019 Dec 13;8:2019-9-4. doi: 10.7573/dic.2019-9-4. eCollection 2019.
• Zhang LL, Wang JQ, Qi RR, et al ; Motion Sickness: Current Knowledge and Recent Advance. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2016 Jan;22(1):15-24. doi: 10.1111/cns.12468. Epub 2015 Oct 9.
• Van Ombergen A, Van Rompaey V, Maes LK, et al ; Mal de debarquement syndrome: a systematic review. J Neurol. 2016 May;263(5):843-854. doi: 10.1007/s00415-015-7962-6. Epub 2015 Nov 11.

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• Section 8 - Cruise Ship Travel
• Section 8 - Airplanes & Cruise Ships: Illness & Death Reporting & Public Health Interventions

Motion Sickness

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Ashley Brown

Motion sickness describes the physiologic responses to travel by air, car, sea, train, and virtual reality immersion. Given sufficient stimulus, all people with functional vestibular systems can develop motion sickness. People vary in their susceptibility, however.

Risk For Travelers

Risk factors for motion sickness include age, sex, preexisting medical conditions, and concurrent medications. Children aged 2–12 years are especially susceptible, but infants and toddlers are generally immune. Adults >50 years are less susceptible to motion sickness. Pregnancy, menstruation, and taking hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives have also been identified as potential risk factors. People with a history of migraines, vertigo, and vestibular disorders are more prone to motion sickness. Some prescriptions can worsen motion sickness–associated nausea.

Clinical Presentation

Motion sickness typically occurs after a triggering motion or event. People with motion sickness commonly experience dizziness; headache; nausea, vomiting, or retching; sweating. For a complete list of motion sickness–associated signs and symptoms, see Box 8-06 .

Box 8-06 Motion sickness symptoms

Anorexia Apathy Cold sweats Drowsiness Generalized discomfort Headache Hyperventilation Increased sensitivity to odors Loss of appetite Nausea Salivation, excessive Sweating Vomiting or retching Warm sensation

Neurophysiology

When sensory input does not align with expected patterns (neural mismatch), patients suffer dizziness and nausea. Sensory conflict theory (the most widely accepted explanation for motion sickness) proposes that the condition is caused by conflict between the visual, vestibular, and somatosensory systems, and involves complex neurophysiologic signaling between multiple nuclear regions, neurotransmitters, and receptors. Medications used to prevent and treat motion sickness are thought to work by suppressing the signals that contribute to neural mismatch.

Nonpharmacologic Prevention & Interventions

Travelers can use nonpharmacologic interventions to prevent or treat motion sickness (see  Box 8-07 ). Awareness and avoidance of situations that tend to trigger symptoms are the primary defenses against motion sickness.

Box 8-07 Non-pharmacologic prevention & interventions for motion sickness: a checklist for travelers

☐ Be aware. Try to avoid situations that tend to trigger your symptoms. ☐ Optimize your position to reduce motion or motion perception (e.g., drive a vehicle instead of riding in it; sit in the front seat of a car or bus; sit over the wing of an aircraft; hold your head firmly against the back of the seat; choose a window seat on flights and trains). ☐ Reduce sensory input. Lie face down, shut your eyes, try sleeping, look at the horizon. ☐ Maintain hydration by drinking water, eating small meals frequently, and limiting alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. ☐ Get plenty of sleep or rest. Being sleep-deprived can worsen motion sickness symptoms. ☐ Avoid smoking. Quitting (even short-term) reduces susceptibility to motion sickness. ☐ Try using distractions. Controlled breathing, listening to music, or using aromatherapy scents like mint, lavender, or ginger. Flavored lozenges also might help. ☐ Some people recommend using acupressure or magnets to prevent or treat nausea, although scientific data are lacking on how effective these interventions are for preventing motion sickness. ☐ Gradually expose yourself to continuous or repeated motion sickness triggers. Most people, in time, notice a reduction in motion sickness symptoms.

Medications used to treat motion sickness can vary in effectiveness and side effects; suggest travelers take a trial dose of medication at home before departure to find what works best for them. The most frequently used antihistamines to treat motion sickness include cyclizine, dimenhydrinate, meclizine, and promethazine (oral and suppository); nonsedating antihistamines appear to be less effective. Other commonly used motion sickness medications include anticholinergics (e.g., scopolamine [hyoscine, oral and transdermal]); benzodiazepines; dopamine receptor antagonists (e.g., metoclopramide, prochlorperazine); and sympathomimetics (often used in combination with antihistamines).

Complementary approaches with anecdotal evidence of effectiveness for preventing or treating motion sickness (e.g., acupressure and magnets, ginger, homeopathic remedies, pyridoxine [vitamin B6]) might be effective for individual travelers but cannot generally be recommended (see Sec. 2, Ch. 14, Complementary & Integrative Health Approaches to Travel Wellness ). Clinical trials have shown that ondansetron, a commonly used antiemetic, is ineffective in preventing nausea associated with motion sickness.

Children & Motion Sickness

For children aged 2–12 years, dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), 1–1.5 mg/kg per dose, or diphenhydramine (Benadryl), 0.5–1 mg/kg per dose up to 25 mg, can be given 1 hour before travel and every 6 hours during the trip. Because some children have paradoxical agitation with these medications, encourage parents to try a test dose before departure. Oversedating young children with antihistamines can be life-threatening. Scopolamine can cause dangerous adverse effects in children and should not be used.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Stefanie K. Erskine

Bibliography

Golding JF, Gresty MA. Pathophysiology and treatment of motion sickness. Curr Opin Neurol. 2015;28(1):83–8. 

Leung AK, Hon KL. Motion sickness: an overview. Drugs Context. 2019;8:2019-9-4. 

Priesol AJ. Motion sickness. Deschler DG, editor. Waltham (MA): UpToDate; 2021. Available from:  www.uptodate.com/contents/motion-sickness . 

Schmäl F. Neuronal mechanisms and the treatment of motion sickness. Pharmacology. 2013;91(3-4):229–41. 

Zhang L, Wang J, Qi R, Pan L, Li M, Cai Y. Motion sickness: current knowledge and recent advance. CNS Neurosci Ther. 2016;22(1):15–24.

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• Motion sickness: First aid

Any type of transportation can cause motion sickness. It can strike suddenly, progressing from a feeling of uneasiness to a cold sweat, dizziness and vomiting. It usually quiets down as soon as the motion stops. The more you travel, the more easily you'll adjust to being in motion.

You might avoid motion sickness by planning ahead. When traveling, avoid sitting in the rear of the vehicle or in seats that face backward. Pick seats where you'll feel motion least:

• By ship, request a cabin in the front or middle of the ship near the water level.
• By plane, ask for a seat over the front edge of a wing. Once aboard, direct the air vent flow to your face.
• By train, take a forward-facing seat near the front and next to a window.
• By automobile, drive or sit in the front passenger's seat. Children should be in age-appropriate seats and restraints.

If you're susceptible to motion sickness:

• Focus on the horizon or on a distant, stationary object. Don't read or use electronic devices while traveling.
• Keep your head still, while resting against a seat back.
• Don't smoke and don't sit near smokers.
• Avoid strong odors, spicy and greasy foods, and alcohol.
• Take an antihistamine, which you can buy without a prescription. Medicines include dimenhydrinate (Dramamine, Driminate, others) and meclizine (Dramamine Less Drowsy, Travel-Ease, others). Dimenhydrinate is safe for children older than age 2. Take these medicines at least 30 to 60 minutes before you travel. Expect drowsiness as a side effect.
• Consider scopolamine, available in a prescription adhesive patch called Transderm Scop. Several hours before you plan to travel, apply the patch behind your ear for 72-hour protection. Talk to your health care provider before using the medicine if you have health problems such as glaucoma or urine retention.
• Try ginger. A ginger supplement combined with ginger snaps, ginger ale or candied ginger might help curb nausea.
• Eat lightly. Some people find that nibbling on plain crackers and sipping cold water or a carbonated drink without caffeine help.
• Ferri FF. Motion sickness. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2023. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Nov. 29, 2022.
• Bennett JE, et al. Protection of travelers. In: Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Elsevier; 2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Nov. 29, 2022.
• Priesol AJ. Motion sickness. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Nov. 29, 2022.
• Motion sickness. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/motion-sickness. Accessed Nov. 29, 2022.
• Kc Leung A, et al. Motion sickness: An overview. Drugs in Context. 2019; doi:10.7573/dic.2019-9-4.
• Dimenhydrinate oral. Facts & Comparisons eAnswers. https://fco.factsandcomparisons.com. Accessed Nov. 29, 2022.

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Patient information : See related handout on motion sickness , written by the authors of this article.

Author disclosure: No relevant financial affiliations.

Motion sickness is a common syndrome that occurs upon exposure to certain types of motion. It is thought to be caused by conflict between the vestibular, visual, and other proprioceptive systems. Although nausea is the hallmark symptom, it is often preceded by stomach awareness, malaise, drowsiness, and irritability. Early self-diagnosis should be emphasized, and patients should be counseled about behavioral and pharmacologic strategies to prevent motion sickness before traveling. Patients should learn to identify situations that will lead to motion sickness and minimize the amount of unpleasant motion they are exposed to by avoiding difficult conditions while traveling or by positioning themselves in the most stable part of the vehicle. Slow, intermittent exposure to the motion can reduce symptoms. Other behavioral strategies include watching the true visual horizon, steering the vehicle, tilting their head into turns, or lying down with their eyes closed. Patients should also attempt to reduce other sources of physical, mental, and emotional discomfort. Scopolamine is a first-line medication for prevention of motion sickness and should be administered transdermally several hours before the anticipated motion exposure. First-generation antihistamines, although sedating, are also effective. Nonsedating antihistamines, ondansetron, and ginger root are not effective in the prevention and treatment of motion sickness.

Motion sickness is a syndrome that occurs when a patient is exposed to certain types of motion and usually resolves soon after its cessation. It is a common response to motion stimuli during travel. Although nausea is a hallmark symptom, the syndrome includes symptoms ranging from vague malaise to completely incapacitating illness. These symptoms, which can affect the patient's recreation, employment, and personal safety, can occur within minutes of experiencing motion and can last for several hours after its cessation.

Nearly all persons will have symptoms in response to severe motion stimuli, and a history of motion sickness best predicts future symptoms. 1 Females, children two to 15 years of age, and persons with conditions associated with nausea (e.g., early pregnancy, migraines, vestibular syndromes) report increased susceptibility.

The pathogenesis of motion sickness is not clearly understood, but it is thought to be related to conflict between the vestibular, visual, and other proprioceptive systems. 2 Rotary, vertical, and low-frequency motions produce more symptoms than linear, horizontal, and high-frequency motions. 1

Clinical Presentation

Although nausea may be the first recognized symptom of motion sickness, it is almost always preceded by other subtle symptoms such as stomach awareness (i.e., a sensation of fullness in the epigastrium), malaise, drowsiness, and irritability. Failure to attribute early symptoms to motion sickness may lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Although mild symptoms are common, severely debilitating symptoms are rare 2 ( Table 1 1 , 2 ) .

Behavioral Interventions

Prevention of motion sickness is more effective than treating symptoms after they have occurred. Therefore, patients should learn to identify situations that may lead to motion sickness and be able to initiate behavioral strategies to prevent or minimize symptoms 1 , 2 ( Table 2 1 – 13 ) .

MINIMIZE VESTIBULAR MOTION

Patients should be advised to avoid traveling in difficult weather conditions. If they must travel, they should sit in the part of the vehicle with the least amount of rotational and vertical motion. 2 This is usually the lowest level in trains and buses, close to water level and in the center of boats, and over the wing on airplanes.

HABITUATE TO MOTION

With continuous exposure to motion, symptoms of motion sickness will usually subside in one to two days. Alternatively, slow, intermittent habituation to motion is an effective strategy to reduce symptoms. 1 For example, spending the first night aboard a boat in the marina, followed by a day acclimating in the harbor, is preferable to going straight into the open ocean.

SYNCHRONIZE THE VISUAL SYSTEM WITH THE MOTION

A small study found that focusing on the true horizon (skyline) minimized symptoms of motion sickness. 5 A survey of 3,256 bus passengers suggested that forward vision was helpful in reducing symptoms. 3 Another study indicated that forward vision in a car can reduce symptoms. 4

ACTIVELY SYNCHRONIZE THE BODY WITH THE MOTION

Actively steering the vehicle is an accepted strategy for reducing symptoms of motion sickness, although evidence is limited. 7 Additionally, a small study of automobile passengers found that actively tilting the head into turns was effective in preventing symptoms. 6 A survey of 260 cruise ship passengers supported the common advice to recline and passively stabilize themselves if they are unable to initiate active movements. 8

REDUCE OTHER SOURCES OF PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND EMOTIONAL DISCOMFORT

Frequent consumption of light, soft, bland, low-fat, and low-acid food can minimize symptoms of motion sickness. 2 Treating gastritis is useful, 2 as is avoiding nausea-inducing stimuli (e.g., alcohol, noxious odors). Discussing symptoms with others can exacerbate the condition. Passengers should be well rested, well hydrated, well fed, and comfortable before beginning travel. Small studies have shown that cognitive behavior therapy, mindful breathing, and listening to music may also reduce symptoms of motion sickness. 9 , 10 , 13

Medications

Medications are most effective when taken prophylactically before traveling, or as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms 2 ( Table 3 1 , 2 , 14 – 23 ) . Medications are most effective when combined with behavioral strategies. To familiarize themselves with common side effects, patients should first take medications in a comfortable environment before using them for motion sickness during travel.

SCOPOLAMINE

Scopolamine, an anticholinergic, is a first-line option for preventing motion sickness in persons who wish to maintain wakefulness during travel. 2 , 20 , 24 A Cochrane review of 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showed that scopolamine is effective for the prevention of motion sickness. 14 A more recent RCT of 76 naval crew members showed that transdermal scopolamine is more effective and has fewer side effects than the antihistamine cinnarizine (not available in the United States). 15 If the recommended dose of scopolamine does not adequately relieve symptoms, the dose may be doubled. Adding a second patch of transdermal scopolamine was well tolerated in a small RCT of 20 sailors. 25

ANTIHISTAMINES

First-generation antihistamines have been used to treat motion sickness since the 1940s. 1 They are generally recommended for patients who can tolerate their sedative effects. 2 , 20 Cyclizine (Marezine), dimenhydrinate, promethazine, and meclizine (Antivert) demonstrated effectiveness in small RCTs of varying quality. 16 – 19 Nonsedating antihistamines are not effective in preventing or treating motion sickness. 26

OTHER MEDICATIONS

Benzodiazepines are occasionally administered for severe symptoms of motion sickness and have been proven effective in a single small study. 27 The serotonin agonist rizatriptan (Maxalt) reduced motion sickness symptoms in a single RCT of 25 patients with recurrent migraines. 28 The serotonin antagonist ondansetron (Zofran) is ineffective for the prevention and treatment of motion sickness. 29 , 30

COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES

Although ginger root is often reported to prevent motion sickness, it had no statistically significant effects in an RCT of 80 naval cadets. 31 A single RCT of pregnant women showed that stimulation of the P6 acupressure point on the anterior wrist increased their tolerance of motion stimuli. 32 Controlled trials of behavioral, pharmacologic, or alternative therapies for motion sickness have demonstrated strong placebo effects. Therefore, treatments are likely to be most effective if the patient believes that they will work. 11 , 12

Data Sources : PubMed was searched using the MeSH headings motion sickness, ships, movement, space motion sickness, and travel. Additional searches were performed in Essential Evidence Plus, UpToDate, Medscape, and BMJ Clinical Evidence. Search dates: March 2012 through March 2014.

Golding JF. Motion sickness susceptibility. Auton Neurosci. 2006;129(1–2):67-76.

Shupak A, Gordon CR. Motion sickness: advances in pathogenesis, prediction, prevention, and treatment. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2006;77(12):1213-1223.

Turner M, Griffin MJ. Motion sickness in public road transport: the relative importance of motion, vision and individual differences. Br J Psychol. 1999;90(pt 4):519-530.

Griffin MJ, Newman MM. Visual field effects on motion sickness in cars. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2004;75(9):739-748.

Bos JE, MacKinnon SN, Patterson A. Motion sickness symptoms in a ship motion simulator: effects of inside, outside, and no view. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2005;76(12):1111-1118.

Wada T, Konno H, Fujisawa S, Doi S. Can passengers' active head tilt decrease the severity of carsickness? Effect of head tilt on severity of motion sickness in a lateral acceleration environment. Hum Factors. 2012;54(2):226-234.

Rolnick A, Lubow RE. Why is the driver rarely motion sick? The role of controllability in motion sickness. Ergonomics. 1991;34(7):867-879.

Gahlinger PM. Cabin location and the likelihood of motion sickness in cruise ship passengers. J Travel Med. 2000;7(3):120-124.

Dobie TG, May JG. The effectiveness of a motion sickness counselling programme. Br J Clin Psychol. 1995;34(pt 2):301-311.

Yen Pik Sang FD, Billar JP, Golding JF, Gresty MA. Behavioral methods of alleviating motion sickness: effectiveness of controlled breathing and a music audiotape. J Travel Med. 2003;10(2):108-111.

Horing B, Weimer K, Schrade D, et al. Reduction of motion sickness with an enhanced placebo instruction: an experimental study with healthy participants. Psychosom Med. 2013;75(5):497-504.

Eden D, Zuk Y. Seasickness as a self-fulfilling prophecy: raising self-efficacy to boost performance at sea. J Appl Psychol. 1995;80(5):628-635.

Denise P, Vouriot A, Normand H, Golding JF, Gresty MA. Effect of temporal relationship between respiration and body motion on motion sickness. Auton Neurosci. 2009;151(2):142-146.

Spinks A, Wasiak J. Scopolamine (hyoscine) for preventing and treating motion sickness. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011;6:CD002851.

Gil A, Nachum Z, Tal D, Shupak A. A comparison of cinnarizine and transdermal scopolamine for the prevention of seasickness in naval crew: a double-blind, randomized, crossover study. Clin Neuropharmacol. 2012;35(1):37-39.

Estrada A, LeDuc PA, Curry IP, Phelps SE, Fuller DR. Airsickness prevention in helicopter passengers. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2007;78(4):408-413.

Brand JJ, Colquhoun WP, Gould AH, Perry WL. (—)-Hyoscine and cyclizine as motion sickness remedies. Br J Pharmacol Chemother. 1967;30(3):463-469.

Weinstein SE, Stern RM. Comparison of marezine and dramamine in preventing symptoms of motion sickness. Aviat Space Environ Med. 1997;68(10):890-894.

Paul MA, MacLellan M, Gray G. Motion-sickness medications for aircrew: impact on psychomotor performance. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2005;76(6):560-565.

Sherman CR. Motion sickness: review of causes and preventive strategies. J Travel Med. 2002;9(5):251-256.

Zajonc TP, Roland PS. Vertigo and motion sickness. Part II: pharmacologic treatment. Ear Nose Throat J. 2006;85(1):25-35.

Gordon CR, Shupak A. Prevention and treatment of motion sickness in children. CNS Drugs. 1999;12(5):369-381.

McDonald K, Trick L, Boyle J. Sedation and antihistamines: an update. Review of inter-drug differences using proportional impairment ratios. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2008;23(7):555-570.

Nachum Z, Shupak A, Gordon CR. Transdermal scopolamine for prevention of motion sickness: clinical pharmacokinetics and therapeutic applications. Clin Pharmacokinet. 2006;45(6):543-566.

Bar R, Gil A, Tal D. Safety of double-dose transdermal scopolamine. Pharmacotherapy. 2009;29(9):1082-1088.

Cheung BS, Heskin R, Hofer KD. Failure of cetirizine and fexofenadine to prevent motion sickness. Ann Pharmacother. 2003;37(2):173-177.

McClure JA, Lycett P, Baskerville JC. Diazepam as an anti-motion sickness drug. J Otolaryngol. 1982;11(4):253-259.

Furman JM, Marcus DA, Balaban CD. Rizatriptan reduces vestibular-induced motion sickness in migraineurs. J Headache Pain. 2011;12(1):81-88.

Muth ER, Elkins AN. High dose ondansetron for reducing motion sickness in highly susceptible subjects. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2007;78(7):686-692.

Hershkovitz D, Asna N, Shupak A, Kaminski G, Bar R, Tal D. Ondansetron for the prevention of seasickness in susceptible sailors: an evaluation at sea. Aviat Space Environ Med. 2009;80(7):643-646.

Grøntved A, Brask T, Kambskard J, Hentzer E. Ginger root against seasickness. A controlled trial on the open sea. Acta Otolaryngol. 1988;105(1–2):45-49.

Alkaissi A, Ledin T, Odkvist LM, Kalman S. P6 acupressure increases tolerance to nauseogenic motion stimulation in women at high risk for PONV. Can J Anaesth. 2005;52(7):703-709.

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Travel Sickness (Oral)

Generic name: meclizine [  MEK-li-zeen  ] Brand names: Antivert , Antivert/25, Antivert/50, Dramamine II , Meclicot , ... show all 9 brands Meni-D, Motion Sickness Relief, Simply Motion, Travel Sickness Drug class: Anticholinergic antiemetics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 24, 2023.

Uses for Travel Sickness

Meclizine is used to prevent and control nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It is also used for vertigo (dizziness or lightheadedness) caused by ear problems.

Meclizine is an antihistamine. It works to block the signals to the brain that cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before using Travel Sickness

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of Antivert® tablets and chewable tablets in children or Antivert®/25 or Antivert®/50 tablets in children younger than 12 years of age . Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of meclizine in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related liver, kidney, or heart problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving meclizine.

Breast Feeding

Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Potassium Citrate
• Tranylcypromine

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Amifampridine
• Amobarbital
• Anileridine
• Benzhydrocodone
• Buprenorphine
• Butabarbital
• Butorphanol
• Calcium Oxybate
• Cannabidiol
• Chloral Hydrate
• Chlordiazepoxide
• Chlorpromazine
• Clorazepate
• Daridorexant
• Dexmedetomidine
• Dihydrocodeine
• Diphenhydramine
• Diphenoxylate
• Eszopiclone
• Ethchlorvynol
• Ethylmorphine
• Flibanserin
• Fospropofol
• Gabapentin Enacarbil
• Glycopyrrolate
• Glycopyrronium Tosylate
• Hydrocodone
• Hydromorphone
• Hydroxyzine
• Ketobemidone
• Lemborexant
• Levocetirizine
• Levorphanol
• Magnesium Oxybate
• Meprobamate
• Methacholine
• Methotrimeprazine
• Metoclopramide
• Morphine Sulfate Liposome
• Nicomorphine
• Opium Alkaloids
• Oxymorphone
• Papaveretum
• Pentazocine
• Pentobarbital
• Periciazine
• Phenobarbital
• Piritramide
• Potassium Oxybate
• Promethazine
• Propoxyphene
• Remimazolam
• Revefenacin
• Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b-njft
• Scopolamine
• Secobarbital
• Secretin Human
• Sodium Oxybate
• Thioridazine

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Enlarged prostate or
• Glaucoma—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.
• Kidney disease or
• Liver disease—Use with caution. The effects may be increased because of slower removal of the medicine from the body.

Proper use of Travel Sickness

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor . Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered.

Chew or crush the chewable tablet completely before swallowing. Do not swallow it whole.

Swallow the non-chewable tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it.

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• Adults—At first, 25 to 50 milligrams (mg) taken 1 hour before travel. You may take another dose once every 24 hours while traveling.
• Children 12 years of age and older—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
• Children younger than 12 years of age—Use is not recommended.
• Adults—25 to 100 milligrams (mg) per day, taken in divided doses.
• Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions while using Travel Sickness

It is very important that your doctor check your or your child's progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly and to check for unwanted effects.

This medicine may cause some people to become drowsy or less alert than they are normally. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you .

This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (medicines that make you drowsy or less alert). Some examples of CNS depressants are antihistamines or medicine for hay fever, other allergies, or colds, sedatives, tranquilizers, antidepressants, or sleeping medicine, prescription pain medicine or narcotics, medicine for seizures or barbiturates, muscle relaxants, or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics. Check with your medical doctor or dentist before taking any of the above while you or your child are using this medicine .

Side Effects of Travel Sickness

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Incidence not known

• difficulty swallowing
• fast heartbeat
• hives, itching, skin rash
• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• tightness in the chest
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

• Blurred vision

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Antivert/25
• Antivert/50
• Dramamine II
• Motion Sickness Relief
• Simply Motion
• Travel Sickness

Available Dosage Forms:

• Tablet, Chewable

Therapeutic Class: Antiemetic

Pharmacologic Class: Antihistamine

Chemical Class: Piperazine (class)

More about Travel Sickness (meclizine)

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Drug class: anticholinergic antiemetics
• Breastfeeding

Patient resources

Other brands.

Antivert , Bonine , Dramamine Less Drowsy , Meclicot , ... +3 more

Professional resources

• Meclizine monograph
• Meclizine (FDA)

Related treatment guides

• Motion Sickness

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

promethazine , diphenhydramine , Benadryl , meclizine , Phenergan , scopolamine

Motion sickness

Motion sickness is feeling dizzy, or feeling or being sick when travelling by car, boat, plane or train. You can do things to prevent it or relieve the symptoms.

Check if you have motion sickness

Symptoms of motion sickness may include:

• feeling sick (nausea)
• feeling cold and going pale

How to ease motion sickness yourself

Do reduce motion – sit in the front of a car or in the middle of a boat look straight ahead at a fixed point, such as the horizon breathe fresh air if possible – for example, by opening a car window close your eyes and breathe slowly while focusing on your breathing distract children by talking, listening to music or singing songs break up long journeys to get some fresh air, drink water or take a walk try ginger, which you can take as a tablet, biscuit or tea don’t.

do not read, watch films or use electronic devices

do not look at moving objects, such as passing cars or rolling waves

do not eat heavy meals, spicy foods or drink alcohol shortly before or during travel

do not go on fairground rides if they make you feel unwell

A pharmacist can help with motion sickness

You can buy remedies from pharmacies to help prevent motion sickness, including:

• tablets – dissolvable tablets are available for children
• patches – can be used by adults and children over 10
• acupressure bands – these do not work for everyone

A pharmacist will be able to recommend the best treatment for you or your child.

Causes of motion sickness

Motion sickness is caused by repeated movements when travelling, like going over bumps in a car or moving up and down in a boat, plane or train.

The inner ear sends different signals to your brain from those your eyes are seeing. These confusing messages cause you to feel unwell.

Page last reviewed: 19 June 2023 Next review due: 19 June 2026

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Motion sickness

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• Motion sickness is also known as travel sickness, car sickness or sea sickness.
• If you have motion sickness, you are likely to have nausea and may vomit and feel clammy.
• You can help prevent motion sickness by looking outside of the vehicle or focusing on the horizon.
• Symptoms usually end once the motion stops.
• You can try travel sickness treatments to help prevent motion sickness.

What is motion sickness?

Motion sickness is feeling unwell when moving on any type of transport. It is also known as ‘travel sickness’, 'car sickness' or 'sea sickness'. It is a normal response to certain types of movement.

There are a few ways to prevent and manage motion sickness.

What are the symptoms of motion sickness?

Nausea is the main symptom of motion sickness. But you might also experience other symptoms, including:

• vomiting or retching
• cold sweating
• lack of appetite
• dry mouth or excess saliva
• increased sensitivity to smell

If you are prone to motion sickness, you may quickly feel sick if you read a book or look at your phone when in a moving vehicle.

You might feel better after vomiting, and symptoms will generally improve once you stop moving. But you can also feel the after-effects of motion sickness for a few hours or a few days before fully recovering.

What causes motion sickness?

Motion sickness is thought to be caused by your senses being confused when what you see is different to the signals felt by your inner ear balance system .

If you are feeling anxious about travel, this can make motion sickness worse.

You can get motion sick when:

• travelling by car, bus, boat, train or aeroplane
• on amusement park rides
• playing virtual reality video games or simulations

Motion sickness is a common problem. It is most frequent in children aged between 2 and 12 years. If other family members get motion sickness, it is more likely that you will too.

If you already have a condition that causes nausea, such as morning sickness or migraines , you may be more likely to experience motion sickness.

How is motion sickness diagnosed?

You don’t need to see a doctor or get any tests for a diagnosis of motion sickness. There is a pattern of feeling unwell during travel or movement, so you will probably know if you have it.

If you often feel dizzy or nauseous at other times too, discuss this with your doctor.

ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? Use the Question Builder for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.

How is motion sickness treated and prevented?

Practical tips.

Here are some tips for preventing motion sickness:

• Look out of the window, and focus on the horizon instead of looking at a book or a screen.
• Try to sit or lie still and rest your head on a pillow or headrest.
• Sit close to the front of a car, bus or train.
• If flying, sit still and close your eyes during take-off and landing.
• Listen to music and breathe mindfully .
• Open the window or air vent for fresh air.
• Eat lightly before and during the trip and avoid alcohol. Sip water instead.

Pressure bands worn on your wrists may help prevent motion sickness in some people.

If you are travelling by sea, after a few days of exposure to the motion you will likely adapt and get used to it.

You can try taking travel sickness medicines to prevent motion sickness. These may include:

• antihistamines
• antiemetics (medications to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting)

There might be side effects, such as drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice on what to take. Getting advice is especially important:

• for children
• if you are taking other medicines
• if you are pregnant

If you are using a travel sickness medicine, you should take it about half an hour before travel. If you have motion sickness and you already feel nauseous, it is probably too late to take a medicine. Eating a few plain crackers or having a clear, fizzy drink may help.

If you or your child regularly suffer from motion sickness, make sure you have a container, plastic bags and wipes handy. Take a break for some fresh air when needed.

Resources and support

Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to prevent and treat motion sickness.

Visit the Australian Government Smart Traveller website for more travel health advice.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content .

Last reviewed: October 2023

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Fight Off Nausea With the Best Sea Sickness Medicines

If you're going on a cruise, seasickness can be a major problem. There are many preventative measures you can take to mitigate this issue including wearing an eye patch to reduce visual stimulus, staying hydrated, and using ginger supplements, but sometimes these aren't enough. If you want to enjoy your trip to the fullest, you need sea sickness medication.

These medicines help reduce the symptoms of nausea and vomiting while calming your stomach, making it easier for your body to cope with any movement that may occur while sailing at sea. We’ve compiled a list of some of the great sea sickness medicines of 2024 that can help with your next trip at sea.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Amazing Flavor: Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Great Value: Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Most Versatile: Sea-Band Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• Budget-Friendly: Equate Sea Sickness Medicine Shop Now ➔
• 1 Types of Sea Sickness Medicines
• 2 Prescription medicines
• 3 Over-the-counter medicines
• 4 Homeopathic sea sickness medicines
• 5 Tips for Using Sea Sickness Medicines Effectively
• 6 Avoid looking in the opposite direction
• 7 Look outside the window
• 8 Switch places
• 9 Get some fresh air
• 10 Distract yourself
• 11 Pick your seat carefully
• 12 Eat healthy food before traveling

Can I use an over-the-counter antihistamine?

Can i use any motion sickness medicines to keep sea sickness at bay, do sea sickness medicines actually work, related reviews, finest sea sickness medicine of 2024 reviewed in detail, best overall.

Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine

Dramamine Sea Sickness Medicine is the number one doctor-recommended medicine that combines the clinically-tested ginger dosage with non-drowsy active ingredients to soothe an upset stomach quickly, so you can enjoy your cruise without any worries. Infused with natural ginger, this sea sickness medicine helps prevent nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. 

Free from artificial colors and flavors, it’s safe for children and is non-addictive, making it a good option for long-term use. This sea sickness medicine comes in tablet form, so you can just swallow it with some water. With its safe formula and amazing results, this sea sickness medicine has earned the top spot on our list. 

• Provides fast relief without any side effects
• Made with natural ginger 
• Contain 36 capsules per pack
• Some may not like the ginger taste

Amazing Flavor

Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine

Don’t let motion sickness ruin your trip! Instead, consider taking Bonine Sea Sickness Medicine. Formulated with meclizine hydrochloride, a safe and effective antihistamine, this medicine mitigates the effects of vomiting, nausea, and vertigo. Because it causes minimal drowsiness, you can even use it before road trips or flights. 

This sea sickness medicine works within an hour and offers motion sickness relief for up to 24 hours so you can keep your wits about you even if the waves start to get rough. Suitable for both kids and adults, this sea sickness medicine won’t make you drowsy or cause headaches. It comes in chewable tablets and has a fruity flavor, so it’s easy for anyone to take.

• Offers up to 24 hours of relief
• Safe for kids 12 years and older
• Comes in a fruity raspberry flavor
• Might cause dry mouth

Great Value

Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine

The Rugby Sea Sickness Medicine is the perfect addition to your travel first aid kit — whether you’re on the water, flying, or driving cross-country. Featuring 25 mg of meclizine HCL, this sea sickness medicine blocks the action of acetylcholine in the brain, preventing nausea, vomiting, and dizziness while calming the stomach. 

Available in a package of three containers with 100 tablets each, this sea sickness medicine is enough to get you through your next cruise or long plane ride without feeling sick to your stomach. If you’re taking other medication that includes meclizine as one of its ingredients then make sure this sea sickness medicine doesn’t conflict with your current regimen.

• Comes in a pack of three
• Available at an affordable price
• Chewable tablets are easy to take
• Might be a bit bitter

Most Versatile

Sea-Band Sea Sickness Medicine

If you’re looking for a way to combat seasickness, Sea-Band Sea Sickness is your best bet. Made with natural ginger, this sea sickness medicine helps with morning sickness, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and post-operative nausea, so you can get through these difficult moments of life with ease. 

Formulated with non-drowsy ingredients, it won’t cause side effects and can be used before you even feel sick, making it a great preemptive measure! Available in a pack of 24 gummies, this sea sickness medicine comes in convenient packaging, making it easy to carry with you on your next adventure.

• Works immediately for seasickness
• Provides migraine and anxiety relief
• Soothing ginger flavor
• Might wear off quickly

Budget-Friendly

Equate Sea Sickness Medicine

When you’re out on the water, or just traveling by car, train, or plane, it can be hard to keep yourself from feeling sick. But with the Equate Sea Sickness Medicine, you’ll be able to stay upright and alert through it all. Available in a bottle of 100 tablets, each pill contains 50 mg of dimenhydrinate, which works by blocking histamine receptors in your body, helping to relieve nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness.

These tablets are safe and effective, and they come at a price that’s hard to beat. You must follow the directions on the package closely when taking this medication and do not exceed the recommended dosage or use more than one dose at a time without first consulting your doctor.

• Convenient and easy to use
• Safe, fast-acting formula
• Available over the counter
• Great for short trips
• Might be hard to swallow

Buying Guide to Finding Sea Sickness Medicine

While there are prescription medicines that can treat motion sickness, mild to severe episodes can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. But how do you choose the right sea sickness medicine when there are so many options available? We’ve put together this detailed buying guide to simplify your choice so you can pick the perfect sea sickness medicine for your needs.

Types of Sea Sickness Medicines

Prescription medicines.

For many people, prescription scopolamine transdermal strips or pills can effectively treat seasickness. While scopolamine minimizes nausea and headaches, it might not be an ideal choice for those with glaucoma, urinary tract problems, gastrointestinal system issues, or breathing problems.

Over-the-counter medicines

Many people find that they can control or completely eliminate the unpleasantness of sea sickness by taking over-the-counter antihistamines, which you can purchase without a doctor’s consultation or prescription. You shouldn’t take any strong antihistamine before driving because it may cause sleepiness, sore throat, trouble urinating, and impaired vision. Even though these side effects are often mild, they can put your life in danger if you’re driving on your own.

We recommend taking an antihistamine roughly half an hour before boarding a plane or heading out on a cruise if you’re prone to seasickness. The efficacy of the antihistamine is significantly decreased if you wait until you feel nauseous before taking it.

Homeopathic sea sickness medicines

The idea behind homeopathic remedies is that even small doses of medicine might actually help cure the symptoms. Although homeopathy is not well supported by science, many individuals report feeling better after using them. Numerous homeopathic remedies for motion sickness often contain nux vomica, an extract from the nux vomica tree’s nuts. If you’re allergic to nuts, these might not be the ideal choice for you.

Tips for Using Sea Sickness Medicines Effectively

Avoid looking in the opposite direction.

While many people benefit from sea sickness medicines, the greatest therapy is to prevent sea sickness in the first place. Always look the same way you’re moving and avoid sitting on backward-facing seats on boats, trains, or buses.

Look outside the window

For many individuals, looking at a novel, tablet, smartphone, or other stationary objects inside a moving vessel — such as a boat or bus — makes them feel sick. Instead, you should look at the surrounding beauty or turn your eyes to the sky to avoid motion sickness.

Switch places

While some people feel better standing up, others feel better lying down. If you’re unsure which position suits you best, you should try switching positions whenever you can to see if one feels better than another.

Get some fresh air

If you’re traveling on a cruise that offers open-air seating, try to sit there. You can also try moving onto the boat’s deck since fresh air helps prevent sea sickness.

Distract yourself

Try to talk to someone, listen to music, enjoy the view, or meditate to distract yourself from feeling sick.

Pick your seat carefully

Sit in the most stable position possible in your means of transportation if you usually feel sea sick. We recommend avoiding sitting on the lower decks of a cruise ship. You should also avoid the stern of a smaller boat, which may be more stable than the front, but has a pungent fuel smell that may make you feel uncomfortable.

Eat healthy food before traveling

Avoid fatty, acidic, or heavy foods before your travel, and limit your alcohol consumption. Drink water or fizzy beverages to stay hydrated while traveling, which may help control or mitigate your feelings of sea sickness.

People Also Asked

Absolutely, but be sure to choose the medicine wisely. While the majority of healthy people may use over-the-counter antihistamines without any issues, those who have hypertension, thyroid issues, glaucoma, bladder infections, an enlarged prostate, or renal illness should consult a doctor first. 

Traveling on the water may cause more turbulence than traveling on the road or in the air, so it’s best to consult with your pharmacist and choose an over-the-counter medicine that’s known for controlling or treating sea sickness specifically.

Sadly, there is no proven method of treating sea sickness that always works. Although most individuals feel better after using these medicines, some patients get little benefit from them. Numerous research supports the fact that antihistamines provide relief to many people.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

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