Cyclizine is an anti-sickness medicine. It's an antihistamine that is used to help stop you feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting).
It works by blocking a chemical called histamine in your brain that can make you feel sick.
You can take cyclizine to treat morning sickness, vertigo and motion sickness.
You can also take it to treat sickness caused by general anaesthetics after surgery, cancer treatment or other medicines, and some inner ear problems such as Ménière's disease.
Cyclizine is available on prescription and to buy from pharmacies. It comes as tablets and is also available as an injection.
Key facts
- You can usually take cyclizine when you need it, up to 3 times a day.
- Common side effects include feeling sleepy and blurred vision.
- Cyclizine starts to work about 30 minutes after taking it. You should feel better after 1 to 2 hours.
- Do not drive, cycle or operate heavy machinery if cyclizine makes you feel sleepy or dizzy or affects your concentration.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while taking cyclizine. Alcohol increases the risk of side effects.