Alcohol can interact with many types of medications, but how does it interact with Dramamine?
Article at a Glance:
Important points to remember about alcohol and Dramamine use include:
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Dramamine because the combination may lead to dangerous side effects
In excessive levels, alcohol and Dramamine use can lead to overdose
If an overdose is suspected, contact medical help immediately
Alcohol & Dramamine
Dramamine is the brand name of the drug dimenhydrinate, which is a common antihistamine used to treat symptoms of motion sickness including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Dramamine is available in tablets that can be chewed or swallowed and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription.
Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) is not the only over-the-counter antihistamine used for motion sickness. Bonine (meclizine) is also an over-the-counter antihistamine used for the same purpose. Dramamine and Bonine work in similar ways and should be avoided with alcohol due to the risk of drowsiness, dizziness and problems staying alert.
Because Dramamine is so easily accessible, many people take it without speaking to a health care provider. However, there are important aspects to consider when taking Dramamine, especially if you are considering drinking alcohol while on the medication.
Overall, it’s not safe to drink alcohol and take Dramamine at the same time as it could lead to dangerous side effects and increase the risk of addiction.
Alcohol and Dramamine Side Effects
When alcohol is combined with Dramamine, the side effects are amplified because both of these substances are depressants.
Symptoms that may occur if someone takes Dramamine and drinks alcohol simultaneously may include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Decreased alertness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fainting or blacking out (especially with increased alcohol abuse)
- Impaired motor coordination
- Risk of falls, particularly in older people
- Risk of developing an alcohol use disorder
- Risk of a Dramamine overdose
Can You Overdose from Alcohol and Dramamine?
It’s possible to overdose on Dramamine on its own or black out from drinking too much alcohol. Combining Dramamine with alcohol only increases the risk of overdose.
Drug overdose can be fatal. If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. Do NOT be afraid to seek help. If you do not have access to a phone contact Web Poison Control Services for online assistance.
Signs of an overdose related to Dramamine and alcohol use may include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Inability to speak clearly
- Confusion
- Unsteadiness
- Dilated pupils
- Flushing of the skin
- Issues swallowing
- Hallucinations
If someone overdoses on Dramamine and alcohol, a health care professional should be contacted immediately. An overdose with Dramamine and alcohol is not to be taken lightly and can be fatal.
If you think you might be an alcoholic, you are not alone. Help is available. Reach out to a representative of The Recovery Village today to learn more about our alcohol detox or alcohol rehab treatment options that could meet your needs.
Articles Related to Alcoholism
Alcohol detox isn’t easy and not everyone can do it on their own. That is why alcohol detox and alcohol withdrawal treatment is administered by medical professionals.
Alcoholism takes many forms, and the stereotype doesn’t always hold true. So when do a few drinks with friends become a full-blown alcohol addiction? How do you know if you are an alcoholic?
While cirrhosis scars from excessive drinking are irreversible, quitting alcohol and leading a healthier lifestyle can help your liver heal from alcohol-related liver disease.
When detoxing, hydration is key. However, certain food groups also have benefits when it comes to helping with the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms and detoxification.
Detox from alcohol can begin within hours. Typically, alcohol withdrawal symptoms happen for heavier drinkers. Alcohol withdrawal can begin within hours of ending a drinking session.
Daily drinking can have serious consequences for a person’s health, both in the short- and long-term. Many of the effects of drinking every day can be reversed through early intervention.
DailyMed. “Dramamine Package Insert.” U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2018. Accessed March 24, 2019.
Campanelli, Christine. “American Geriatrics Society Updated Beer[…] Use in Older Adults.” U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2012. Accessed March 24, 2019.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. “Harmful Interactions: Mixing Alcohol with Medications.” Published in 2014. Accessed March 24, 2019.
MedlinePlus. “Dimenhydrinate.” U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2018. Accessed March 24, 2019.
Drugs.com. “Drug Interaction Report“>Drug Int[…]action Report.” Accessed February 21, 2022.
The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.