Quick prescriptions for motion Sickness patches and medications

Antihistamines are the most commonly used medications for motion sickness. Some antihistamines are available through prescription, but you may be able to effectively treat motion sickness with over-the-counter antihistamines such as dimenhydrinate (generic for Dramamine) or diphenhydramine (generic for Benadryl). Other commonly prescribed medications include anticholinergics and antidopaminergic drugs. Depending on the medication, these may be taken orally, as a suppository, intranasally (via the nose), or as a transdermal (skin) patch.

Talk to your doctor, if you have any questions about safely administering over-the-counter motion sickness medications to your child.

You may reduce the risk of motion sickness by following these simple suggestions:

- Sit in the right place. Try to sit in the front seat (or drive) if you’re riding in a car. Get a window seat if you’re riding on a bus, train, or plane (ideally toward the front of the bus, facing forward on a train, or in the wing section of a plane), sit in the middle of a boat on the upper deck (unless it’s a cruise ship, in which case aim for front or middle of the ship on a lower deck.

- Reduce your sensory input. Avoid looking at your phone, reading, or using any electronic devices.

- Control your intake. Drink plenty of water. If you eat, avoid eating too much grease, sugar, spice, or acidity. Bland, starchy foods are best. Also, avoid smoking or drinking caffeinated beverages or alcohol.

- Find something relaxing to focus on. Recline or lie and the way back, if possible. Try keeping your eyes closed or looking at the horizon. Do controlled breathing exercises, listen to music, count backward from 100, or use aromatherapy scents such as mint or lavender. If you’re able to sleep, that is a great option. Flavored lozenges may also help.

- Get some fresh air. Roll down your car window or point the air vent towards you.

- Ingest ginger or peppermint. Some people find eating peppermint or raw ginger helps to ease their nausea. Ginger may act as a blood thinner, though, so talk to your doctor first before you use it.

Some people find acupressure or magnetic wristbands helpful for treating nausea, though more studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of these treatments.