Dimenhydrinate Side Effects

Some side effects of dimenhydrinate may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to dimenhydrinate: oral liquid, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable

Stop taking dimenhydrinate and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take dimenhydrinate and talk to your doctor if you experience

• drowsiness or dizziness;

• restlessness, excitation, nervousness, or insomnia;

• blurred or double vision;

• dry mouth, nose, or throat;

• decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;

• difficulty urinating; or

• an irregular or fast heartbeat.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to dimenhydrinate: compounding powder, injectable solution, oral liquid, oral tablet, oral tablet chewable

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have commonly included drowsiness and sedation. Depression, impaired motor skills, CNS stimulation, nervousness, dizziness, excitation, and restlessness have been reported. CNS stimulation may paradoxically occur in some patients. Headache and tinnitus have been reported rarely. Convulsions and coma have also been reported.

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects have included urinary retention and dysuria as a result of the anticholinergic effects of dimenhydrinate.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects have been reported in patients receiving dimenhydrinate products containing tartrazine dye. These have included bronchial asthma and have occurred more likely in patients sensitive to aspirin.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects reported as mild have included dry mouth, dry nose, dry throat, constipation, and diarrhea. Anorexia and epigastric distress have been reported.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included dryness of the respiratory passages, thickening of bronchial secretions, and respiratory depression.

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects have included hypotension, palpitations, and tachycardia.

Ocular

Ocular side effects have included blurred vision, diplopia, and dry eyes due to anticholinergic effects.

Other

Other side effects have included lassitude.

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