Cruising is my absolute favorite way to travel…but cruising comes with several big things: waves. At least for me, big waves on the sea causes big waves of nausea. Of course, cruising isn’t the only mode of travel that can lead to nausea. Maybe you’re road tripping on curvy roads, have to ride in the back seat, or maybe your stomach is just prone to queasiness in general. Whatever the source, your friendly traveling pharmacist is here to help. As a Doctor of Pharmacy and a Registered Pharmacist working in retail, I frequently get asked about ways to combat nausea and vomiting. Here are some of the suggestions I give my patients every day!
[DISCLAIMER: I am a RPh and these are simply suggestions that I might give to a patient who were to ask me for advice on the subject. Unless stated, the suggestions in this post do not take into consideration any chronic medical conditions (such as high blood pressure), pregnancy, or medication allergies. If any of those apply to you please talk with your pharmacist or physician before trying any of these suggestions! As always, I am not paid to endorse any products or brands. My recommendations are based on my education and professional judgement and are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or influenced by my employer in any way.]
Non-Medicinal
If you’re trying to avoid medicine there’s always some non-medicinal options to try. If you’re in a car, be sure your vision is not obstructed and that you are looking and facing straight ahead. Do not read or look at screens or games. Open the window to get fresh air if possible (or if you're on a ship step outside if possible).
Another option is a carbonated beverage such as ginger ale. Ginger ale is especially helpful because of the ginger which helps by itself for nausea. Nibbling on plain crackers like saltines can help sometimes too.
Some individuals like to use peppermint as a soothing agent. In some cases, peppermints themselves can help. Peppermint tea is very helpful if available. Peppermint essential oil can also be used – dilute a drop with some water and rub it on your wrist and inhale the scent.
Over the Counter (OTC)
motioneaze
This is my GO TO product to prevent and cure my motion sickness. I always seem to be queasy on cruises (even when the rocking is not so bad) but rubbing a little bit of this behind my ear and I feel better in MINUTES! It’s really just a blend of herbs, nothing medicinal to it, but it does the trick! I keep it in my toiletry bag so I never leave for a trip without it (because I’ve definitely paid $15 for a bottle ON a ship before – 10/10 recommend packing it before you leave lol).
Upspring Stomach Settle Drops
Another product that’s just a blend of herbs (ginger, lemon, spearmint, and B6). Something about it works though. They look just like cough drops…I keep these on my person at all times and anytime I get a little queasy (at work or when I’m just on a day trip out of town or something), I pop one of these, and will start feeling better within a few minutes. I recommended them to a friend who couldn’t keep anything down, she had tried EVERYTHING else, and these were the only thing that helped her at all. Take that as you will.
Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate)
Dramamine is a motion sickness medication that can be given to prevent or treat motion sickness from ages 2+. For prevention, a dose should be taken about 30 minutes to an hour before the car ride or motion is planned. This product will almost certainly cause drowsiness! Definitely not ideal if you’re on a cruise or are up next for a driving shift. It will also be additive with alcohol so this probably isn’t the one for you if you’ve got that unlimited bar package.
Bonine (Meclizine)
Meclizine is a LESS drowsy formulation for treating and prevention motion sickness and dizziness. That doesn’t mean it won’t cause some drowsiness depending on how you react to it though (especially if you’re planning on combining it with a lot of alcohol). Meclizine is for children and adults 12+ and doses for prevention should be taken about an hour before motion is planned.
As stated above, if you have any doubts please contact your doctor or another medical professional before trying any of these remedies. I struggle with nausea and travel related motion sickness regularly. Nothing ruins a trip faster than getting sick or feeling sick the entire time. Hopefully some of these will help you feel better and keep you happy and healthy during your travels.
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