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Before taking cyclizine
Before taking cyclizine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have prostate problems or have difficulty passing urine.
- If you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eyes).
- If you have heart problems.
- If you have liver problems.
- If you have epilepsy.
- If you know you have a blockage of your small intestines.
- If you have porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
- Note: cyclizine is not suitable for children under 6 years of age.
How to take cyclizine
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take cyclizine exactly as directed.
- If you are taking this medicine for travel sickness the first dose should be taken one to two hours before travelling.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Cyclizine may cause drowsiness. You should not drive after taking cyclizine until you know how you respond to it and that your reactions are normal.
- Alcohol will increase any feelings of drowsiness experienced after taking cyclizine. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effect on you.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take alongside cyclizine.
Can cyclizine cause problems?
All medicines can cause unwanted side-effects along with their useful effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller |
| Drowsiness, blurred vision | Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other job which would be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly |
| Dry mouth, nose and throat | Try chewing sugar-free sweets or gum |
| Constipation | Try to eat a well balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink plenty of water |
| Skin rash, difficulty passing urine, restlessness | Stop taking cyclizine and speak to your doctor about these |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store cyclizine
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 58th Edition (September 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).