Cinarzin

Indications

Cinnarizine is used to relieve vertigo (a spinning feeling), dizziness, ringing in the ears, nausea and vomiting caused by inner ear problems such as Meniere's disease and labyrinthitis. It is also used to prevent and treat motion sickness (travel sickness). Combination tablets with Dimenhydrinate are used for vertigo.

How It Works

Cinnarizine is an antihistamine that also blocks calcium entry into cells. It calms the balance organs of the inner ear and reduces the signals to the brain that cause dizziness and sickness.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children over 12 years: vertigo and inner ear problems, usually 30 mg (two 15 mg tablets) three times a day. Motion sickness: 30 mg two hours before travel, then 15 mg every 8 hours during the journey if needed. Children 5 to 12 years: half the adult dose, on a doctor's or pharmacist's advice. Combination tablets with Dimenhydrinate: usually 1 tablet up to three times a day, as directed. Take after meals.

Interactions

• Alcohol, sleeping tablets, sedatives, strong painkillers and other antihistamines increase drowsiness.
• Tricyclic antidepressants such as Amitriptyline add to drowsiness and dry mouth.
• It may add to the effect of blood pressure medicines.
• It can mask the results of allergy skin tests; stop it a few days before testing.

Contraindications

• Allergy to cinnarizine or any ingredient of the product.
• Porphyria.
• Children under 5 years.

Side Effects

Common effects are drowsiness, tiredness, stomach upset, nausea and weight gain. Others include headache, dry mouth, sweating and skin rash. Long-term use, especially in older people, can rarely cause stiffness, tremor or slow movements like Parkinson's disease, and low mood.

Get urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), yellow skin or eyes, or new uncontrolled movements or shaking.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid in pregnancy unless a doctor says it is needed. Avoid while breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk.

Precautions and Warnings

• It can cause drowsiness; do not drive or use machines if affected.
• Use with care in Parkinson's disease, liver or kidney disease, and in older people.
• Avoid long-term use unless the doctor advises it; vertigo that keeps returning needs medical review.
• Avoid alcohol.

Overdose

Overdose can cause severe drowsiness, vomiting, low blood pressure, shaking, and in children fits or coma. Seek emergency medical help straight away.

Therapeutic Class

Antihistamine (antivertigo and anti-sickness medicine).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.