Cyclizine

About cyclizine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antihistamines.

Cyclizine is used to treat sickness, vertigo (loss of balance or dizziness), travel sickness and problems affecting the inner ear and balance.

Cyclizine is available in tablet (50mg) and injection (50mg/ml) form.

It is also sometimes known as: Valoid. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

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 suffer from prostate problems
• if you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eyes) or severe heart failure
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take cyclizine

• Always read the manufacturer’s information leaflet before beginning treatment.
• Take cyclizine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• If you are taking this medicine for travel sickness the first dose should be taken at least half an hour before travelling.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of cyclizine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Cyclizine is not suitable for drivers and should only be taken if you are travelling as a passenger.
• Cyclizine can cause drowsiness and blurred vision. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly.
• Alcohol will increase feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effect on you.
• Before taking any over-the-counter medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside cyclizine.
• Cyclizine can cause a dry mouth. If you experience this, try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking pieces of ice or sugar-free sweets. Alternatively a saliva substitute is available to purchase from your pharmacist. If a dry mouth becomes too troublesome speak with your doctor.

Can cyclizine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which 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:

Drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, difficulty urinating (passing water), constipation, a fast or fluttering heartbeat, stiffness or problems with movement, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, shakiness.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store cyclizine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely, out of the reach of children, or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 08/03/2006