Motion Sickness

The best way to treat Reference motion sickness Opens New Window is to stop the motion. If you can't stop the motion, sit or lie down in an area with the least motion. In an airplane, try to sit near the wings. On a ship, stay on the deck and look at the horizon. Or, if you are inside, move to the center of the ship.

You also can take prescription and Reference nonprescription Opens New Window medicine to prevent or reduce symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Most medicines work best if taken before travel. The medicines work in different ways. Some are sedatives that minimize the effect of motion. Others reduce nausea and vomiting.

The following medicines may help prevent symptoms of motion sickness:

• Reference Scopolamine (Transderm Scop)
• Reference Promethazine (Promethegan)
• Reference Antihistamines, including dimenhydrinate (such as Dramamine). Do not give your child antihistamines unless your child’s doctor has told you to. If the doctor tells you to give your child medicine, be sure to follow the doctor’s advice on how to give it.

People often try alternative methods of preventing motion sickness such as taking Reference ginger or wearing Reference acupressure bands. There is little scientific evidence that these methods work. But there is no harm in trying them.

Reference Physical therapy Opens New Window may help people who have significant problems with motion sickness. Your physical therapist will guide you through repeated motions in a controlled situation to help your balance-sensing system adapt to motion. No large studies have been done to test this treatment.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.