Drug Guide
Cyclizine Lactate
Classification
Therapeutic: Antiemetic
Pharmacological: Histamine H1 receptor antagonist
FDA Approved Indications
- Prevention and treatment of nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness and vestibular disturbances.
Mechanism of Action
Cyclizine selectively inhibits H1 histamine receptors in the central nervous system, leading to suppression of the nausea and vomiting reflexes.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically, 50 mg three times daily. Dose may be adjusted based on clinical response.
Pediatric: Not recommended for children under 6 years due to limited safety data.
Geriatric: Use with caution; start at lower doses due to increased sensitivity and risk of side effects.
Renal Impairment: Adjust dosage based on severity of impairment.
Hepatic Impairment: Use caution; monitor for increased effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration.
Distribution: Widely distributed, crosses blood-brain barrier.
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted primarily via the kidneys.
Half Life: Approximately 9 hours.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to cyclizine or other antihistamines.
- Caution in patients with angle-closure glaucoma, urinary retention, or gastrointestinal obstruction.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with liver or renal impairment, elderly, and during pregnancy and lactation.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Sedation/drowsiness (Common)
- Dry mouth (Common)
- Dizziness (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Anticholinergic toxicity (e.g., hallucinations, agitation) (Rare)
- Hepatic toxicity (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- CNS depressants (additive sedative effects)
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for effectiveness and adverse effects, especially sedation and anticholinergic effects.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for injury related to sedation or dizziness.
- Impaired skin integrity due to dry mouth.
Implementation: Administer with food if gastric upset occurs. Monitor for signs of anticholinergic toxicity.
Evaluation: Assess reduction in nausea and vomiting, monitor for adverse side effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Advise patients to avoid activities requiring mental alertness (e.g., driving).
- Warn about dry mouth, blurred vision, and dizziness.
- Instruct patient to report any severe side effects or allergic reactions.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings: N/A
Genetic Factors: None identified.
Lab Test Interference: None significant.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Extreme sedation, hallucinations, agitation, tachycardia, dry mouth, urinary retention.
Treatment: Supportive care; activated charcoal if ingestion recent; symptomatic treatment for anticholinergic effects. Dialysis generally not effective.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from light and moisture.
Stability: Stable for 2-3 years when properly stored.