First try: Ginger and WristbandsAlthough far from proven, these are safe and worth a shot, especially for mild symptoms. Ginger root, typically sold in candies
and capsules, has the most supporting evidence. Occasional use of up to 250 milligrams four times a day is considered safe
for most people, including women who might be pregnant.
Bracelets such as Sea-Bands, found at drugstores, stimulate acupressure points on the wrist and have been shown to combat
nausea in some situations. The evidence that they work against motion sickness is mixed. However, they're safe and can be
used along with other remedies.
Next try: AntihistaminesOlder over-the-counter antihistamines such as
dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) and
diphenhydramine (Benadryl) have been proven to counteract motion sickness and are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use by
children older than 2. The catch is that they take 30 minutes to an hour to kick in, and they can leave you feeling drowsy
or light-headed. Newer, nonsedating OTC antihistamines such as
loratadine (Claritin) and
cetirizine (Zyrtec p) might relieve allergy symptoms but don't appear to quell a queasy stomach.
If all else fails, try: Prescription DrugsPromethazine (Phenergan) is another antihistamine effective at relieving nausea, but it might make you sleepy. Another choice is prescription
strength
meclizine (Antivert), although it, too, may cause drowsiness. A
scopolamine patch (Transderm-Scop) is also very effective, but side effects including blurred vision and severe drowsiness make it a treatment
of last resort. Some patients also report a rebound effect, including nausea, dizziness, and headaches when they remove the
patch.