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How does taking Dramamine effect diving? I read a study that showed taking it diminished the ability to perform tasks under water. What should divers take to get over seasickness? Thanks.
Dramamine before diving
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I usually don't get sick, but my wife does
she has tried most of the common medications and chooses to use meclazine sold over the counter as bonine. When I choose to use a seasick medication I use childrens gravol it doesn't seem to have any serious side effects and does not make me drowsy later.
she has tried most of the common medications and chooses to use meclazine sold over the counter as bonine. When I choose to use a seasick medication I use childrens gravol it doesn't seem to have any serious side effects and does not make me drowsy later.
Groundhog246
Contributor
I've used Bonamine with no noticeable (to me) side effects. I'd suggest testing yourself with shallow dives first and then gradually increasing depths (and tell your buddy what you've taken).
Scubaroo
Contributor
I use the Dramamine "non-drowsy" formula - I find I have to take it the day before, and again the next morning before getting on the boat, for it to work, and once I'm through, I want to sleep, but nowhere near as bad as Bonine - that stuff knocks me out while I'm still on the boat!
Actually I think just being properly hydrated (lots of water the night before and before , and staying out of the boat fumes (and away from any smokers on the boat), helps more.
Actually I think just being properly hydrated (lots of water the night before and before , and staying out of the boat fumes (and away from any smokers on the boat), helps more.
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To answer this inquiry sensibly, we first need to agree upon what drug is under discussion.
The thread has thus far mentioned Dramamine (dimenhydrinate), Dramamine Less-Drowsy formula (meclizine) & a Canadian product Bonamine (meclizine).
Dramamine Original formula (dimenhydrinate) is the only one of these to be scientifically studied to date under conditions of increased partial pressures of N2 & O2.
"The Psychometric and Cardiac Effects of Pseudoephedrine and Dimenhydrinate in the Hyperbaric Environment, Taylor et al, Pharmacotherapy 2000:20;(9):1045-1054" includes two original articles involving nicely designed studies showing that the sedative effects of dimenhydrinate (Dramamine Original Formula; Triptone) are potentiated by depth (chamber rides) and cause significant decreases in some measures of performance & cognitive function.
Meclizine containing motion sickness drugs likely would also have some of the effects of dimenhydrinate, although I cannot say so with certainty.
As to what divers should do to attempt to deal with mal de mer, you might find this often reproduced item from our board achives to be informative. It's an updated version of a piece from my Jan/Feb '00 "Ask RSD" column in "Rodale's Scuba Diving":
"Sea sickness, which shows wide variation in susceptibility among individuals, is not yet fully understood. It is believed to occur when portions of the brain tasked with maintaining balance receive input from the eyes, inner ear, muscles and joints that is inconsistent and unexpected over an extended period of time.
Prevention is a first step. Avoid fatigue and get adequate rest. Eat modestly, avoiding greasy, fatty, acidic and spicy foods. Don't skip breakfast, but stick to bland foods like toast, rolls and cereal. Go easy on tea and coffee, and very, very easy on alcoholic beverages. When on the boat, don't get overheated--stay under a sunshade, don't put on your protective suit until necessary, and get in the water as soon as possible. Search out a spot low and in the center where motion is minimized, face forward, focus your eyes on a fixed object on the horizon or elsewhere, avoid unnecessary neck movements and stay out of exhaust fumes. Do not go below, read anything or look through binoculars. If you must vomit, do so freely, but not anywhere on the boat, and especially not in the marine toilet.
There are plenty of medications available, and you may wish to discuss this with your physician. Among those reported to be the most effective are meclizine and scopolamine. Prescription strength meclizine commonly comes as Antivert. Scopolamine can be delivered through a transdermal patch, Transderm Scop, orally, and as a gel applied to the wrists. The gel reportedly works faster, but not as long as the patch. Scopolamine is the US Navy's first line sea sickness drug, including for divers, and DAN approves it with a trial run. Occasionally Phenergan, whose primary indication is as a sedative, is recommended. It can cause very serious drowsiness, however, and is sometimes prescribed in combination with a stimulant to counteract this. The above drugs are prescription only and have reported side effects, most commonly dryness of the mouth and drowsiness. They may also cause blurred vision, dizziness and even confusion in some users, and it is recommended to carefully discuss their use with your physician, give them a trial run prior to use in conjunction with diving, and take them only according to instructions.
Over the counter (OTC) drugs include Bonine, Dramamine (Not recommended due to demonstrated adverse effects on alertness & performance), Dramamine II (Advertised as a "less drowsy" formula. As this implies, be aware that some individuals still do experience some degree of drowsiness.) and Triptone (Same active ingredient as original Dramamine, dimenhydrinate, so draw your own conclusions) . A British drug, Stugeron (cinnarizine), has been mentioned by several sources as an effective treatment (Have seen a recent research piece suggesting impairment at higher doses), but it is not yet available in the US. Those diving in such places as Mexico & the British Virgin Islands can find it. Many report these OTC medications most effective if taken at bedtime the night prior to diving, with a second dose about an hour before diving, although recommended dosage amounts should of course not be exceeded. These medications often cause significant dryness of the mouth. Stay very well hydrated.
Considering more "natural" remedies, ginger is frequently mentioned, which can be taken in powdered, crystallized or root form (recommended preparations), or as ginger snaps, ginger ale, or tea. As heartburn with the use of ginger has been reported, also pack an antacid. Others swear by wrist straps, such as 'Sea Bands,' usually wooden or plastic balls on elastic bands which are placed so as to exert pressure on an acupressure point on the inside of the wrist. There are also 'artificial-horizon' glasses. Even aromatherapy has been tried, with a combination of mandarin, peppermint, spearmint and lavender oil being recommended.
In the final analysis, you will need to discover what works best for you with the least risk, side effect, cost and inconvenience. If you take any medications, you should understand their adverse effects and carefully follow directions for use. And remember, there is one safe, sure cure: 'Sleep under a tree all day.' "
This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.
Best regards.
DocVikingo
The thread has thus far mentioned Dramamine (dimenhydrinate), Dramamine Less-Drowsy formula (meclizine) & a Canadian product Bonamine (meclizine).
Dramamine Original formula (dimenhydrinate) is the only one of these to be scientifically studied to date under conditions of increased partial pressures of N2 & O2.
"The Psychometric and Cardiac Effects of Pseudoephedrine and Dimenhydrinate in the Hyperbaric Environment, Taylor et al, Pharmacotherapy 2000:20;(9):1045-1054" includes two original articles involving nicely designed studies showing that the sedative effects of dimenhydrinate (Dramamine Original Formula; Triptone) are potentiated by depth (chamber rides) and cause significant decreases in some measures of performance & cognitive function.
Meclizine containing motion sickness drugs likely would also have some of the effects of dimenhydrinate, although I cannot say so with certainty.
As to what divers should do to attempt to deal with mal de mer, you might find this often reproduced item from our board achives to be informative. It's an updated version of a piece from my Jan/Feb '00 "Ask RSD" column in "Rodale's Scuba Diving":
"Sea sickness, which shows wide variation in susceptibility among individuals, is not yet fully understood. It is believed to occur when portions of the brain tasked with maintaining balance receive input from the eyes, inner ear, muscles and joints that is inconsistent and unexpected over an extended period of time.
Prevention is a first step. Avoid fatigue and get adequate rest. Eat modestly, avoiding greasy, fatty, acidic and spicy foods. Don't skip breakfast, but stick to bland foods like toast, rolls and cereal. Go easy on tea and coffee, and very, very easy on alcoholic beverages. When on the boat, don't get overheated--stay under a sunshade, don't put on your protective suit until necessary, and get in the water as soon as possible. Search out a spot low and in the center where motion is minimized, face forward, focus your eyes on a fixed object on the horizon or elsewhere, avoid unnecessary neck movements and stay out of exhaust fumes. Do not go below, read anything or look through binoculars. If you must vomit, do so freely, but not anywhere on the boat, and especially not in the marine toilet.
There are plenty of medications available, and you may wish to discuss this with your physician. Among those reported to be the most effective are meclizine and scopolamine. Prescription strength meclizine commonly comes as Antivert. Scopolamine can be delivered through a transdermal patch, Transderm Scop, orally, and as a gel applied to the wrists. The gel reportedly works faster, but not as long as the patch. Scopolamine is the US Navy's first line sea sickness drug, including for divers, and DAN approves it with a trial run. Occasionally Phenergan, whose primary indication is as a sedative, is recommended. It can cause very serious drowsiness, however, and is sometimes prescribed in combination with a stimulant to counteract this. The above drugs are prescription only and have reported side effects, most commonly dryness of the mouth and drowsiness. They may also cause blurred vision, dizziness and even confusion in some users, and it is recommended to carefully discuss their use with your physician, give them a trial run prior to use in conjunction with diving, and take them only according to instructions.
Over the counter (OTC) drugs include Bonine, Dramamine (Not recommended due to demonstrated adverse effects on alertness & performance), Dramamine II (Advertised as a "less drowsy" formula. As this implies, be aware that some individuals still do experience some degree of drowsiness.) and Triptone (Same active ingredient as original Dramamine, dimenhydrinate, so draw your own conclusions) . A British drug, Stugeron (cinnarizine), has been mentioned by several sources as an effective treatment (Have seen a recent research piece suggesting impairment at higher doses), but it is not yet available in the US. Those diving in such places as Mexico & the British Virgin Islands can find it. Many report these OTC medications most effective if taken at bedtime the night prior to diving, with a second dose about an hour before diving, although recommended dosage amounts should of course not be exceeded. These medications often cause significant dryness of the mouth. Stay very well hydrated.
Considering more "natural" remedies, ginger is frequently mentioned, which can be taken in powdered, crystallized or root form (recommended preparations), or as ginger snaps, ginger ale, or tea. As heartburn with the use of ginger has been reported, also pack an antacid. Others swear by wrist straps, such as 'Sea Bands,' usually wooden or plastic balls on elastic bands which are placed so as to exert pressure on an acupressure point on the inside of the wrist. There are also 'artificial-horizon' glasses. Even aromatherapy has been tried, with a combination of mandarin, peppermint, spearmint and lavender oil being recommended.
In the final analysis, you will need to discover what works best for you with the least risk, side effect, cost and inconvenience. If you take any medications, you should understand their adverse effects and carefully follow directions for use. And remember, there is one safe, sure cure: 'Sleep under a tree all day.' "
This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.
Best regards.
DocVikingo
walt williams
Registered
My wife gets seasickness just looking at water -- she just got a package of Transderm-Scop -- only four in the box, and we'll be diving six days. The pharmascist says they're (each patch) good for three days, BUT -- does being u/w dilute or diminish the effectiveness? Will she need to put a new one on each day? Or is the only worry that the adhesive might fail and the patch will fall off?
Thanks in advance for the info!
Walt
Thanks in advance for the info!
Walt
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The u/w environment does not significantly interfere with the patch's drug delivery system as long as the underside is kept dry. Make sure that the area of application is free of hair (can even shave it), free of natural or applied oil & dry when you place the patch. If one does this, and avoids subsequent mechanical dislodgment, it should adhere for the prescribed duration.
Do be aware the some users find the patch effective for only two days, topside or below. This needs to be played by ear (sorry). However, application of a new patch each day is appropriate only if so prescribed.
The above discussed concerns can be circumvented by an oral form of scopolamine such as Scopace.
This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.
Best regards.
DocVikingo
Do be aware the some users find the patch effective for only two days, topside or below. This needs to be played by ear (sorry). However, application of a new patch each day is appropriate only if so prescribed.
The above discussed concerns can be circumvented by an oral form of scopolamine such as Scopace.
This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.
Best regards.
DocVikingo
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You know best how a particular drug effects you, but do be aware that the standard tablets of both Dramamine Original Formula & Triptone contain 50 mg of dimenhydrinate as the active ingredient.
Best regards.
DocVikingo
Best regards.
DocVikingo
You should give some thought as to where you place the patch. For reasons I can only guess at (I assume to enhance the psychological benefit) various transdermal patches are recommended/advertised to be placed nearer the target organ--nitro patches on the chest, estrogen and BC patches on the lower abdomen, and scop behind the ear (exception is a testosterone patch--don't know if it's still on the market, that had to placed in a certain spot because the characteristics of the skin there are not the same as elsewhere....). Of course, the drug is delivered systemically, so as long as there is steady skin perfusion (don't use them much below the upper arm or leg), it shouldn't matter.
I've been on boats where people have had problems with their behind the ear patches being dislodged when they've taken hoods on and off, so that may not be the best place. If you're in a dry suit, put it on your chest or belly or somewhere it won't be affected by water or the act of donning/doffing the suit. If in a wet suit, figure out where it may be most protected.
I agree with DocVikingo that duration is variable. Most people get three days, but one (large) guy from our LDS feels he needs a new one daily so I prescribe enough to get him through the length of the trip.
Personally, I go with Meclizine 25 the night before, and then a half one in the morning. I get some dry mouth, but if it makes me drowsy at night, fine, and I'm always so psychologically energized by diving, I don't notice any daytime drowsiness (beyond my normal need for an afternoon nap). And of course, if I'm slightly more narced at depth, I wouldn't notice (but no one has ever pointed out any problems to me--maybe they're equally narced).
Good luck
I've been on boats where people have had problems with their behind the ear patches being dislodged when they've taken hoods on and off, so that may not be the best place. If you're in a dry suit, put it on your chest or belly or somewhere it won't be affected by water or the act of donning/doffing the suit. If in a wet suit, figure out where it may be most protected.
I agree with DocVikingo that duration is variable. Most people get three days, but one (large) guy from our LDS feels he needs a new one daily so I prescribe enough to get him through the length of the trip.
Personally, I go with Meclizine 25 the night before, and then a half one in the morning. I get some dry mouth, but if it makes me drowsy at night, fine, and I'm always so psychologically energized by diving, I don't notice any daytime drowsiness (beyond my normal need for an afternoon nap). And of course, if I'm slightly more narced at depth, I wouldn't notice (but no one has ever pointed out any problems to me--maybe they're equally narced).
Good luck
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