Nothing ruins a highly anticipated vacation faster than that sudden wave of nausea. As a medical professional, I have seen countless patients come to me with anxiety about their upcoming trips, not because they are afraid of flying or sailing, but because they are terrified of getting sick. Whether it is a choppy boat ride, a winding road trip, or turbulence on a plane, motion sickness is a very real and uncomfortable condition.
However, I have good news. You do not have to suffer through it. Modern medicine offers us a variety of effective tools to manage these symptoms. Today, I want to walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the right motion sickness medicine so you can travel with confidence and joy.
Why Do We Get Motion Sickness?
Before we dive into the treatments, it is helpful to understand what is happening inside your body. I always explain this to my patients as a “communication breakdown” between your eyes, your inner ear, and your brain.
Your inner ear (the vestibular system) senses that you are moving. However, if you are sitting still in a cabin or looking at a book in a car, your eyes tell your brain that you are stationary. This sensory conflict triggers a stress response in the brain, resulting in dizziness, cold sweats, and nausea. It is simply your brain getting confused by mixed signals.
Fortunately, we can block these signals before they ruin your day.
Top Over-the-Counter Motion Sickness Medicines
For most travelers, the pharmacy aisle has exactly what you need. Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines are the most common and accessible form of motion sickness medicine. They work by blocking the signals in the brain that cause nausea.
Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
This is perhaps the most famous name in the game. I often recommend this for short trips where you need strong, immediate relief. It is highly effective, but it comes with a catch: it can make you very sleepy. If you plan to sleep on a long flight, this might actually be a bonus. However, if you are the one driving the rental car, this is not the right choice for you.
Meclizine (Bonine or Dramamine Less Drowsy)
If you need to stay awake and alert, Meclizine is usually my top recommendation. It is marketed as “less drowsy” for a reason. While it can still cause mild sedation in some people, it is generally much easier to tolerate than Dimenhydrinate. It is particularly great for all-day activities because it lasts longer in your system.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
While mostly known as an allergy medication, Diphenhydramine is also effective against motion sickness. However, like Dimenhydrinate, it causes significant drowsiness. I generally only suggest this if you are in a pinch and it is the only option available in your medicine cabinet.
Comparing Your Options
To help you decide which motion sickness medicine is right for your specific itinerary, I have compiled this comparison chart. This is a quick reference guide I often share with my patients.
| Generic Name | Common Brand | Duration of Action | Drowsiness Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimenhydrinate | Dramamine Original | 4–6 Hours | High | Sleeping on planes/cars |
| Meclizine | Bonine | 24 Hours | Low to Moderate | Cruises, day trips |
| Scopolamine | Transderm Scop | 3 Days (72 Hours) | Moderate | Long cruises (Prescription only) |
| Cyclizine | Marezine | 4–6 Hours | Moderate | Short boat rides |
Prescription Options: The Scopolamine Patch
If over-the-counter options haven’t worked for you in the past, or if you are going on a very long trip—like a week-long cruise—I recommend asking your doctor about Scopolamine.
This is a prescription patch that you place behind your ear. What makes this motion sickness medicine fantastic is its longevity. One patch lasts for three days. It releases a steady dose of medication through your skin, keeping your blood levels consistent.
Data Point 1: According to clinical studies, Scopolamine patches have been shown to reduce the incidence of motion sickness by nearly 75% in susceptible individuals during naval operations. This makes it a gold standard for heavy travel.
I must note that while effective, the patch can cause dry mouth and occasionally blurred vision. Always wash your hands after applying it so you don’t accidentally rub the medication into your eyes.
Who is Most at Risk?
You might be wondering why your spouse can read a book on a rollercoaster while you feel sick just backing out of the driveway. Susceptibility varies greatly.
Data Point 2: Research indicates that genetics play a massive role. It is estimated that roughly 33% (one in three) of the general population is highly susceptible to motion sickness, but under extreme conditions (like a storm at sea), that number can jump to nearly 100%.
Below is a graph representing the susceptibility of motion sickness across different age groups. As you can see, children are the most vulnerable.
Susceptibility by Age Group
*Estimated susceptibility based on clinical observation.
Natural Alternatives
I completely understand that not everyone wants to take pharmaceutical medication. Some of my patients prefer a more holistic approach, especially if they are pregnant or sensitive to side effects like drowsiness.
Ginger
Ginger is not just an old wives’ tale; it has legitimate medicinal properties. It helps settle the stomach and aids digestion. You can take it in capsule form, chew on crystallized ginger, or drink ginger tea. While it may not be strong enough for severe seasickness, it is wonderful for mild symptoms.
Acupressure Bands
These are elastic wristbands with a plastic stud that applies pressure to the P6 (Nei-Kuan) point on your wrist. I have had mixed feedback from patients; some swear by them, while others feel no difference. Since they are drug-free and inexpensive, I believe they are worth a try, especially for children.
For more detailed information on healthy travel practices and safety, I recommend checking the CDC Yellow Book regarding Motion Sickness. It is an excellent resource for travelers.
Dr. Sabeti’s Tips for Success
Choosing the right medicine is only half the battle. How and when you take it matters immensely. Here are the protocols I use for myself and my family:
- Timing is Everything: Never wait until you feel nauseous to take your medicine. Once the vomiting starts, it is very difficult to keep a pill down, and your digestive system slows down, meaning the drug won’t absorb well. Take your dose 30 to 60 minutes before departure.
- Watch Your Diet: Avoid heavy, greasy, or acidic foods before travel. A light meal of crackers or toast is best. An empty stomach can make nausea worse, but an overfull stomach is just as bad.
- Hydrate: Dehydration exacerbates symptoms. Drink plenty of water, but avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, as these can mess with your inner ear’s equilibrium.
- Pick the Right Seat: If you are flying, sit over the wing; it is the most stable part of the plane. In a car, sit in the front passenger seat. On a boat, try to stay on a lower deck near the center of the vessel.
Special Considerations for Children
As we saw in the graph earlier, children between ages 2 and 12 are the most susceptible group. However, you must be careful with dosing. Not all motion sickness medicine is safe for toddlers.
Dimenhydrinate and Diphenhydramine are generally safe for children over age 2, but you must follow the dosage instructions on the package strictly. Interestingly, while these drugs make adults sleepy, they can sometimes cause “paradoxical excitation” in kids—meaning your child might become hyperactive instead of drowsy. I always suggest doing a “test run” at home a few days before your trip to see how your child reacts.
Embrace Your Journey
Travel opens up our world, connects us with loved ones, and creates memories that last a lifetime. Do not let the fear of motion sickness keep you grounded. With the right preparation and the right medication, you can conquer any journey.
I encourage you to visit your local pharmacy or speak with your primary care physician to decide which option fits your health profile best. Pack your bag, take your meds early, and enjoy the adventure ahead. You have the tools to handle this!
