Why is this medication prescribed?

Bonine is commonly prescribed for the prevention and treatment of motion sickness. Motion sickness occurs when there’s a conflict between what your eyes see and what your inner ears (which help with balance) sense. This can happen during activities like traveling by car, plane, or boat. Bonine contains the active ingredient meclizine, which works by blocking signals in the brain that trigger nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

How should this medicine be used?

The typical recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is one to two tablets (25 to 50 mg) taken once daily, or as directed by a doctor. Bonine should be taken with a full glass of water, with or without food.

For prevention of motion sickness, it’s usually recommended to take Bonine at least one hour before travel. If you’re already experiencing symptoms of motion sickness or vertigo, you can take it as soon as you feel nauseous or dizzy.

It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions and the instructions on the medication label carefully when using Bonine or any other medication. If you have any questions or concerns about its use, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

While Bonine is primarily prescribed for motion sickness and vertigo, it may also be used off-label for other conditions such as nausea and vomiting associated with inner ear disorders or certain types of dizziness. However, the off-label use of Bonine should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider when using Bonine include:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to meclizine or any other medications.
• Medical Conditions: Notify your doctor of any medical conditions you have, especially asthma, glaucoma, difficulty urinating (due to an enlarged prostate gland), or intestinal blockage.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your doctor before taking Bonine, as its safety during pregnancy and lactation is not well established.
• Drowsiness: Bonine may cause drowsiness, so avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Bonine, as it may increase the risk of drowsiness and other side effects.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Bonine.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when administering Bonine to children or the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to its effects.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication label carefully before using Bonine. If you experience any concerning side effects or have questions about its use, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there aren’t specific dietary restrictions associated with Bonine. However, it’s generally recommended to take it with a full glass of water, with or without food.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Bonine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Bonine, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Bonine may include:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nervousness
• Fatigue
• Upset stomach

These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to notify your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, Bonine may cause more serious side effects, such as:

• Difficulty urinating
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Mental or mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations)
• Tremors or seizures

If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Additionally, allergic reactions to Bonine are possible but uncommon. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s important to discuss any concerns or unusual symptoms with your healthcare provider when taking Bonine or any other medication. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your treatment as needed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Bonine:

• Store Bonine at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store Bonine in the bathroom.
• Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or on the medication label.
• If you have unused or expired Bonine, dispose of it properly according to local guidelines or by consulting with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call emergency services immediately.
• Otherwise, if you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room right away.
• Symptoms of overdose may include severe drowsiness, seizures, confusion, hallucinations, or fast/irregular heartbeat.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider while taking Bonine.
• Do not share Bonine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
• It’s important to continue taking Bonine as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you feel well.
• Do not take more Bonine than prescribed or for longer than recommended.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Bonine, its use, or potential side effects, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further information and guidance.