Cinnarizine — what it does and when you might need it

Ever felt dizzy on a boat or struggled with sudden spinning sensations? Cinnarizine is a medicine people often use for motion sickness and vertigo. It works as an antihistamine and a mild calcium-channel blocker to calm the balance system in the inner ear. That usually means less nausea, fewer head spins, and fewer interruptions to daily life.

How to use cinnarizine safely

Most adults take cinnarizine as a tablet. A common routine is 25 mg two to three times a day (often 75 mg total). For motion sickness, people sometimes take a dose an hour before travel and continue for the trip. Take it with food if it upsets your stomach. Don’t double up doses if you miss one—take the next dose at the usual time.

Kids and older adults need adjusted dosing. If you’re giving it to a child or you’re over 65, check exact dosing with a doctor or pharmacist. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid starting cinnarizine without medical advice—there’s limited safety data.

Common side effects and who should avoid it

Most side effects are mild. The common one is drowsiness — cinnarizine can make you sleepy, so don’t drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Other effects include dry mouth, weight gain, and mild stomach upset. A less common but important risk is movement problems like tremors or stiffness, especially with long-term use or in older people. If you notice unusual muscle movements or a change in mood, stop and see a doctor.

People with Parkinson’s disease or Parkinson-like symptoms should not use cinnarizine. Also avoid it if you have a known allergy to the drug or its ingredients. If you take other sedating medicines (sleeping pills, strong painkillers, some antidepressants), the sleepiness can add up—talk to your prescriber about adjusting doses.

Drug interactions matter. Alcohol and other central nervous system depressants increase drowsiness. Cinnarizine can also interact with certain psychiatric drugs and medicines that affect dopamine. Always tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take.

Storing it is simple: keep it in a cool, dry place away from children. If you’re using cinnarizine for travel, try a short course rather than long-term use unless a doctor recommends ongoing treatment.

Bottom line: cinnarizine can be very effective for motion sickness and vertigo when used correctly. Watch for sleepiness and movement-related side effects, avoid mixing with alcohol or strong sedatives, and check dosing if you’re elderly, pregnant, or giving it to a child. If symptoms persist or you have worrying side effects, get medical help—there are other options for balance problems and nausea.