Dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine medication known for its efficacy in alleviating allergic symptoms. Notable for its H1 receptor-blocking action, it provides relief from conditions such as itching and runny nose. Moreover, dimenhydrinate’s central nervous system depression induces drowsiness, making it useful for motion sickness and as a sleep aid. With additional antiemetic and antimuscarinic properties, dimenhydrinate is commonly employed to address various allergic and motion-related issues.
Structure
Synthesis
Mechanism of action
Dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine, works by blocking H1 receptors to alleviate allergic symptoms and has central nervous system depressant effects for drowsiness, antiemetic properties, and antimuscarinic effects.
Properties and uses:
Dimenhydrinate is a white crystalline powder or colorless crystals, slightly soluble in water and alcohol. Used as histamine H1-receptor antagonist, antinauseant in motion sickness, radiation sickness, and nausea during pregnancy.
Assay:
Dissolve the sample in anhydrous acetic acid and titrate against 0.1 M perchloric acid. Determine the end-point potentiometrically.
- Dose: The usual dose is 50 mg thrice/day orally.
- Dosage forms: Dimenhydrinate tablets B.P.