Meclizine is a piperazine-derivative antihistamine that is used as an antiemetic. It has antiemetic, anticholinergic and antihistaminic properties. It reduces the sensitivity of the labyrinthine apparatus. The action may be mediated through nerve pathways to the vomiting center (VC) from the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), peripheral nerve pathways, the VC, or other CNS centers. Pyridoxine is vitamin B-6. It has been added to enhance the anti-emetic effects & as a dietary suppliment.
The CNS depressant effects of Meclizine can be potentiated by concurrent use of Ethanol or other CNS depressant agents such as Benzodiazepines, Barbiturates, Tricyclic antidepressants, opiate agonists, skeletal muscle relaxants and antihistamines. Concurrent use of other anticholinergics can potentiate the anticholinergic effects of Meclizine. Meclizine can increase the absorption of digoxin by decreasing gastrointestinal motility.
Meclizine Hydrochloride and Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to these ingredients.
Drowsiness, dry mouth and, on rare occasions, blurred vision have been reported.
Pregnancy Category B. Large-scale human studies have not demonstrated adverse fetal effects. It has been suggested that based on available data, Meclizine presents the lowest risk of teratogenicity and is the drug of first choice in treating nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Safety for use in the nursing mother has not been established.
Patients should be warned that Meclizine Hydrochloride may impair their ability to perform hazardous activities requiring mental alertness or physical coordination (e.g., operating machinery, driving a motor vehicle). Patients should avoid alcoholic beverages while taking this drug. Due to its potential anticholinergic action, this drug should be used with caution in patients with asthma, glaucoma or enlargement of the prostate gland.
Symptoms: Extreme excitability, seizures, drowsiness and hallucinations.
Treatment: Appropriate supportive and symptomatic treatment. Consider dialysis
