Antivert: A Comprehensive Guide on Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options with Medical Citations Antivert is a medication that is commonly prescribed to manage the symptoms of vertigo and related balance disorders. Vertigo is the sensation of dizziness and spinning, and it can sometimes be accompanied by nausea and vomiting, which can be extremely disruptive to daily activities. Antivert is a brand-name of the generic drug meclizine, which is classified as an antihistamine. In this article, we will discuss the uses, dosage, demographics, side-effects, drug interactions, and generic options of Antivert. Uses: Antivert is typically used to alleviate the symptoms of vertigo and dizziness associated with motion sickness, inner-ear disorders, and Meniere’s disease. The medication blocks histamine receptors in the brain, which helps to reduce the signals of dizziness and nausea. It can also be used to manage the symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. Dosage: Antivert comes in the form of tablets or chewable tablets in 12.5mg, 25mg, and 50mg doses. The dosage of Antivert has to be determined by a medical professional and is dependent on several factors, including the patient's age, weight, health status, and the severity of the symptoms. The recommended dosage for adults and children over 12 years of age is usually 25-100mg per day, divided into two or more doses. Children under 12 years of age should not take Antivert, unless prescribed by a doctor. Demographics: Antivert is commonly prescribed to seniors (elderlies) who are more susceptible to vertigo and imbalance disorders than other age groups. However, it can be prescribed to adults and children over 12 years of age. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before taking Antivert or any medication. Side Effects: Antivert can cause side-effects like any medication, and some people may experience allergic reactions. Common side-effects of Antivert include drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, blurred vision, and constipation. Less common Antivert side-effects include nervousness, irritability, tinnitus, difficulty urinating, and sudden fainting. These side-effects should be reported to your doctor immediately. Interactions: Antivert can interact with other medications, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal or dietary supplements. Combining Antivert with Alcohol, opioids, and CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines) can increase the risk of drowsiness and sedation. Antivert may also potentially interact with medications that cause QT prolongation e.g., some antibiotics and antiarrhythmic drugs, increasing the risk of QT prolongation, a dangerous heart condition. It is essential to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications that you are taking to avoid potentially serious interactions. Generic Options: Antivert is a brand name of the generic drug, meclizine. Other brand names include Bonine, Meclicot, and Travel-Eze. All these drugs contain meclizine as the active ingredient, and they work in the same way to alleviate the symptoms of vertigo and dizziness. Generic options of Antivert are typically more affordable than the brand-name version, making them accessible to people who cannot afford the high medication costs. Conclusion: Antivert is an effective medication prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of vertigo and dizziness, and it is commonly prescribed to seniors. It comes in different doses and forms, and it is essential to follow your doctor's instructions for dosage and use. Antivert can cause side-effects and interactions, which is why it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before taking it. Generic options of Antivert containing the same active ingredient, meclizine, are available, and they are more affordable than the brand-name version. Citations: U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2015, April). Antivert (meclizine hydrochloride) tablets. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/007693s053lbl.pdf MedlinePlus. (2021, April 15). Meclizine. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682548.html National Library of Medicine. (2019, December 15). Meclizine. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554603/