What medications can be taken to prevent motion sickness?

Common medications for preventing motion sickness generally include Dimenhydrinate Tablets, Phenobarbital and Scopolamine Hydrobromide Tablets, Difenidol Tablets, Metoclopramide Tablets, and Betahistine Hydrochloride Oral Solution. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　1. Dimenhydrinate Tablets: As a classic oral antihistamine, the main ingredient, dimenhydrinate, inhibits central nervous system excitation and reduces the sensitivity of vestibular receptors. It should be taken orally 30 minutes to one hour before travel. The drug is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and its effects can last 4 to 6 hours, effectively relieving symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting caused by motion sickness. However, it may cause side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth.

　　2. Phenobarbital and Scopolamine Hydrobromide Tablets: This compound oral tablet combines phenobarbital and scopolamine hydrobromide. Scopolamine blocks the action of acetylcholine on the vestibular nerve ganglion, while phenobarbital exerts a sedative effect; together they work synergistically to prevent motion sickness. It should be taken with warm water about 20 minutes before travel and has a long-lasting effect. However, this formulation should be used cautiously by patients with glaucoma or prostate enlargement.

　　3. Difenidol Tablets: This oral tablet prevents motion sickness by improving vertebrobasilar arterial blood supply, regulating vestibular nervous system function, and blocking the transmission of excitatory signals in the vestibular nerve pathways. The tablet should be swallowed whole half an hour before traveling and is effective against dizziness caused by various factors. Some individuals may experience mild side effects such as dry mouth or gastrointestinal discomfort after taking it.

　　4. Metoclopramide Tablets: This oral tablet acts by blocking dopamine receptors, affecting the chemoreceptor trigger zone in the medulla oblongata, and inhibiting the vomiting center, thereby effectively managing nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness. It should be taken 10 to 15 minutes before travel. The usual adult dose is 5–10 mg, while the dosage for children should be adjusted according to body weight. Excessive use may cause extrapyramidal reactions.

　　5. Betahistine Hydrochloride Oral Solution: This liquid formulation is absorbed orally and can dilate the cardiovascular system of the heart and brain, especially improving inner ear circulation, alleviating symptoms such as vertigo and tinnitus of the inner ear, and enhancing the tolerance of vestibular organs. When taken according to the prescribed dosage, it can reduce susceptibility to motion sickness for a certain period and also has a beneficial effect on improving cerebral blood circulation.

　　Before using motion sickness medication, carefully read the drug instructions and strictly follow the recommended dosage and timing. When traveling, try to choose well-ventilated window seats and avoid behaviors such as looking down at your phone, which can also help reduce the likelihood of motion sickness.