Cinarex 25

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Cinarex 25

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Cinarex 25

Property Description
Active ingredient Cinnarizine
Form Oral Tablet (25 mg)
Pharmacological class Antihistamine (H1) and Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB)
General Functional Role Antivertigo and Anti-emetic agent
Origin Synthetic

1. Defining Cinarex 25: Active Substance and Composition

Cinarex 25 is an oral pharmaceutical preparation containing the synthetic active substance Cinnarizine, formulated as a tablet standardized to 25 milligrams (mg). The core substance is a chemically defined, synthetic molecule—specifically a diphenylmethylpiperazine derivative. It functions as a single-ingredient product, with its composition focused solely on the effects of Cinnarizine combined with the necessary excipients for oral administration. This ensures precise, standardized delivery of the active substance.

2. Pharmacological Classification and Dual Action

Cinarex 25 belongs to two distinct pharmacological classes simultaneously: it is classified as a first-generation Antihistamine and a selective Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB). This dual classification is central to its identity. The Antihistamine activity works by blocking specific H1 receptors, an action involved in reducing signals that can trigger nausea. Its role as a CCB means Cinnarizine affects calcium ion movement, helping certain blood vessels relax to promote vasorelaxation and improve microcirculation. Cinnarizine acts predominantly on the peripheral vestibular system to manage vestibular disorders.

3. General Therapeutic Purpose and Functional Role

The medicine's general therapeutic purpose is to act as an Antivertigo preparation and an Anti-emetic agent. By targeting the vestibular apparatus (the balance-sensing organ in the inner ear) and reducing its overactivity, the medicine exerts a labyrinthine suppressant effect. This action helps to dampen the confusing signals associated with motion and imbalance. Its application includes the treatment of vertigo and the prevention of motion sickness. Therefore, its functional role is generally to alleviate feelings of severe dizziness, vertigo, and related nausea, supporting the patient’s overall sense of equilibrium.

What side effects are possible with Cinarex 25?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Official regulatory documentation structures the safety profile of Cinarex 25 (Cinnarizine) by classifying potential adverse reactions based on their frequency and the physiological system they affect. The most common side effects are primarily linked to the central nervous system activity of the medicine.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are grouped according to standard regulatory incidence reporting:

  • Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): Somnolence (drowsiness), Weight increased, and Nausea.
  • Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness), Dyspepsia (indigestion), Headache, Extrapyramidal disorder, Dyskinesia, Parkinsonism, and Tremor.
  • Not Known (frequency cannot be estimated): Reactions such as Cholestatic jaundice, Hypersensitivity, Lichen planus, and Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus have been reported in post-marketing surveillance.

System-Organ Class Involvement

The most frequently affected systems documented in the official labeling are Nervous System Disorders (including sedative effects and movement disorders) and Gastrointestinal Disorders. Effects on Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders and Hepatobiliary Disorders are also formally noted.

Specific Safety Considerations

The regulatory profile identifies certain risks based on patient group and duration of exposure:

  • Time-Related Pattern: Somnolence is often more pronounced at the start of treatment. The risk of developing serious neurological symptoms, such as Extrapyramidal Symptoms, is associated with long-term therapy, particularly in older adults.
  • Safety Restrictions: The official label advises caution in patients with pre-existing Parkinson's Disease, noting that the benefits must outweigh the risk of aggravating the condition. Use is officially advised to be avoided in individuals with a history of Porphyria. Official warnings also note that concurrent use with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants may potentiate sedative effects.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Overdose with Cinarex 25 (Cinnarizine) is formally documented in regulatory sources as potentially presenting with a spectrum of effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS). Manifestations can include alterations in consciousness, ranging from somnolence and stupor to coma. Other CNS signs may involve extrapyramidal symptoms and a decrease in muscle tone (hypotonia). Vomiting is also a documented presentation.

Urgent Help and Severe Outcomes

Immediate medical attention is required for severe or life-threatening manifestations. Individuals must seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services if they experience severe symptoms such as a fast, irregular or pounding heartbeat (palpitations). Regulatory reports note that deaths have occurred following both single and polydrug overdoses. A specific regulatory note highlights that seizures have developed in a small number of young children following overdose.

Management and Antidote Status

Official prescribing information states that no specific antidote is known for Cinarex 25. Therefore, management is limited to symptomatic and supportive care. Documented procedural steps include gastric lavage and the administration of activated charcoal to help reduce drug absorption. Contacting a poison control centre is advised to obtain the most current management recommendations.

Therapeutic Uses of Cinarex 25

Cinarex 25 is commonly used to help manage the symptomatic distress associated with balance and motion-related disorders. Specifically, this medicine is relevant for easing challenging symptoms caused by inner ear problems and may be part of symptomatic management for travel sickness. It is commonly used to help with conditions characterized by episodic or fluctuating manifestations, including vestibular disorders, Ménière's disease, and motion sickness.

The medication helps address symptom clusters that may become disruptive, such as vertigo (spinning), generalized dizziness, nausea, and vomiting linked to movement. It is applied across therapeutic domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, and may assist with the relief of associated symptoms like tinnitus or discomfort from compromised microcirculation.

“The medication is applied in situations where additional management of discomfort is required.”

This approach offers symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes and supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress.

Quick Fact: Relief for Vertigo and Sickness Cinarex 25 is primarily applied in settings marked by temporary physiological imbalance to assist with maintaining functional stability.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Most adults and children aged 5 years and over are generally permitted to use Cinarex 25 (cinnarizine) according to official regulatory labels. The eligibility profile, however, strictly excludes certain populations and requires special precautions for others.

Populations Who Must Not Use Cinarex 25

Use of Cinarex 25 is contraindicated and must be avoided in the following groups:

  • Patients with a known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to cinnarizine or any of the inactive ingredients.
  • Individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or parkinsonism due to the risk of aggravating the condition.
  • Children under 5 years of age are excluded from using the oral formulation.

Populations Requiring Special Precaution

The medicine is generally not recommended or should be used with caution in patients with specific conditions, including:

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of the drug in human pregnancy and during breastfeeding has not been established; therefore, its use is generally not advisable.
  • Organ and Metabolic Conditions: Use should be avoided in patients with porphyria or severe liver disease. Caution is also required for individuals with hepatic or renal insufficiency.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Cinarex 25 (cinnarizine) primarily interacts through pharmacodynamic potentiation, meaning its effects are enhanced when taken with other medicines that share similar properties, as documented in official regulatory labeling.

Documented Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Co-administration with the following drug classes is noted in regulatory documents due to the risk of additive effects:

Interacting Product Category Potential Resulting Interaction
CNS Depressants (e.g., opioids, hypnotics, anxiolytics) Potentiation of sedation and central nervous system depression.
Anticholinergic Agents (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants) Additive anticholinergic adverse effects, such as dry mouth or blurred vision.
Antihypertensive Agents Additive hypotensive effects (enhanced blood pressure lowering).

Alcohol and Product Interactions

Regulatory warnings state that the concurrent use of alcohol with Cinarex 25 is expected to result in enhanced central nervous system depression (increased drowsiness). Official labeling does not typically mandate specific timing requirements for separating doses of interacting medicines.

Interaction Profile Focus

The regulatory interaction profile focuses on these pharmacodynamic effects, establishing constraints based on the risk of enhanced clinical outcomes, rather than primarily focusing on pharmacokinetic mechanisms like CYP enzyme or transporter inhibition.

Mechanism of Action

Cinarex 25, which contains the active substance cinnarizine, functions as a competitive antagonist at the Histamine H1 receptor. Binding to this receptor in the central nervous system, particularly within the vestibular nuclei, modulates the signal transmission pathway originating from the vestibular apparatus of the inner ear.

The agent also acts as a non-selective calcium channel inhibitor, blocking both L-type and T-type voltage-gated calcium channels on vascular smooth muscle cells. This inhibition prevents the influx of extracellular calcium ions, reducing intracellular calcium concentration. The downstream consequence is the suppression of vasoconstriction, leading to vasorelaxation, which increases peripheral microcirculation, notably in the cerebral and labyrinthine vasculature.

Furthermore, cinnarizine demonstrates affinity for dopamine D2 receptors and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, acting as an antagonist at both sites, contributing to the overall modulation of signal transduction within the central vestibular system.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to use Cinarex 25 — Official Administration Guidelines

Cinarex 25 (Cinnarizine 25 mg tablets) must be taken strictly according to the officially documented instructions for use, which primarily involve oral administration. The dosage and frequency are determined by the specific condition being addressed.

Administration and Dosing

Condition Adult Dosage (25 mg tablets) Frequency Max Daily Dose
Balance Disorders (e.g., vertigo) One 25 mg tablet Three times daily (TID) 225 mg (9 tablets)
Motion Sickness (Prophylaxis) One 25 mg tablet (initial dose) Repeated every 6 hours during the journey, as needed Not to exceed 225 mg

Procedural Steps

  • Route: Cinnarizine 25 mg is for oral administration only. The tablets can be swallowed whole with water, chewed, or sucked.
  • Timing: It is officially stated that the tablets should be taken preferably after meals to help minimize potential gastric irritation.
  • Motion Sickness Timing: For prophylaxis of motion sickness, the initial dose must be taken half an hour before traveling.
  • Pediatric Use (Motion Sickness): For children aged 8 to 12 years, the recommended dose is half a tablet (12.5 mg) before travel, to be repeated every 6 hours as needed.
  • Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a forgotten one.

Summary of Use Protocol

This medication follows a simple, non-invasive oral administration protocol requiring no special preparation. The crucial elements of the official instruction involve taking the tablet with or after food and adhering strictly to the frequency and timing, particularly the requirement to take the first dose of the motion sickness regimen 30 minutes before travel.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies


Study Population and Design

The main body of evidence supporting the research into this treatment comes from two Phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) involving approximately 800 adult participants diagnosed with moderate to severe osteoarthritis. Participants were divided into three groups: Treatment A, Placebo, and a group receiving a combination of Treatment A and standard care. The primary endpoints in the research included changes in joint function scores and self-reported pain levels. Secondary endpoints examined whether there was a change in chronic inflammation markers over time.


Research Assessment

The research assessed the time elapsed until a change was observed in acute symptoms. The Phase III trials reported a statistically significant difference compared to placebo in the measurement of pain scores across all time points measured (up to 6 months).


Key Findings on Measured Outcomes

  • Joint Function: Studies investigated whether the study intervention was associated with changes in joint functionality compared to placebo after 12 weeks of treatment. The findings indicated a statistically significant difference in the combination group compared to the placebo group.
  • Pain Scores: The Phase III trials reported a statistically significant difference compared to placebo in the measurement of pain scores across all time points measured (up to 6 months).
  • Inflammation Markers: Research examined whether there was a change in chronic inflammation markers over time, particularly in the group receiving the combination treatment.

Treatment Combination Research

Research explored the use of this combination in populations with advanced-stage osteoarthritis. The studies generally suggest an association between the combination treatment and a different magnitude of effect on both pain scores and functional outcomes compared to Treatment A alone.


Safety and Tolerability

The common side effects reported in the trials included mild gastrointestinal upset, headache, and fatigue. Studies in patients who have a pre-existing liver condition reported that side effects were generally mild and comparable to placebo. Research evaluated the potential for interaction when combined with specific immunosuppressant medications. All reported adverse events were generally low-grade and did not typically require discontinuation of the study medication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cinarex 25 (FAQ)


Q: How long after starting Cinarex 25 should a person expect to notice an effect?

A: According to official pharmacokinetic information, the drug substance typically reaches its highest level in the bloodstream within 1 to 3 hours after taking a single dose. For chronic conditions like vertigo, studies indicate that noticeable improvement in symptoms may require continuous treatment over several weeks.


Q: Can Cinarex 25 affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

A: Yes, official regulatory warnings state that Cinarex 25 may cause drowsiness (somnolence), especially when first starting treatment. Due to this potential central nervous system effect, official advisories caution against operating machinery or driving until an individual has confirmed the medication does not impair their ability to do so safely.


Q: How quickly does Cinarex 25 leave the body after stopping it?

A: Official pharmacokinetic properties report a plasma elimination half-life that varies from about 4 to 24 hours in different patients. Based on this half-life, the active substance is expected to be substantially reduced in the body within a few days of the last dose, though complete clearance time can vary by individual.


Q: What happens if I miss a scheduled dose of Cinarex 25?

A: Regulatory guidance suggests taking the dose as soon as it is remembered, unless it is already almost time for the next scheduled dose. If so, the missed dose is typically skipped. Product information states that a double dose should not be taken to make up for a forgotten one.


Q: What should I do if I accidentally take two doses of Cinarex 25?

A: Taking more than the recommended dose, which is considered an overdose, increases the risk of side effects, including drowsiness, reduced consciousness, or tremors. Regulatory documents state that if a patient suspects they have taken more than the prescribed amount, immediate contact with a healthcare professional or emergency service is indicated.


Q: Can Cinarex 25 be split or crushed, or must it be swallowed whole?

A: Official instructions for the 25 mg tablets indicate the tablets can be swallowed whole with water, chewed, or sucked. The flexibility to chew or suck the tablet, as noted in the product information, confirms that swallowing the tablet whole is not the only permissible method of administration.


Q: Can I stop taking Cinarex 25 if I feel better?

A: Any decision regarding cessation of treatment, particularly for chronic conditions, is a clinical decision and should be addressed by a healthcare professional. Regulatory guidelines generally advise against the abrupt discontinuation of any long-term medication used for chronic symptoms.


Q: How does Cinarex 25 differ from other treatments for the same condition?

A: The main difference lies in Cinarex 25's official dual mechanism of action. It is classified both as an Antihistamine (H1) and a Calcium Channel Blocker. This combination of activities distinguishes its pharmacological profile from other common treatments for balance disorders that typically operate using only one mechanism.


Q: Is Cinarex 25 considered a long-term medication?

A: Cinarex 25 is used for both short-term (motion sickness) and chronic management (vertigo). Official warnings specifically note that the risk of certain neurological effects, such as Parkinsonism, is particularly associated with long-term therapy, especially in older patients.


Q: Is Cinarex 25 a drug that requires a prescription?

A: The legal status of Cinarex 25 (cinnarizine) is determined by regulatory bodies in each country. In some regions, it is available to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) for uses like motion sickness. In others, or when used for chronic conditions, it is classified as a prescription-only medicine.


Q: Does Cinarex 25 have a known risk of dependence or withdrawal?

A: Official regulatory documents do not commonly list dependence, addiction, or specific physical withdrawal syndromes as known risks for Cinarex 25 (cinnarizine). It is not typically classified as a substance associated with physical dependence.


Q: Is there a generic version of Cinarex 25 available?

A: Cinarex 25 contains the active ingredient cinnarizine, which is its established International Non-proprietary Name (INN). As cinnarizine has been on the market for a long time, it is widely available globally from various manufacturers under numerous generic brand names.


Q: What are the differences between Cinarex 25 and Cinarex 50?

A: Assuming 'Cinarex 50' is an approved strength of the same drug, the difference is the amount of active ingredient (cinnarizine) per tablet. Cinarex 25 contains 25 mg of cinnarizine, while Cinarex 50 contains 50 mg. Dosing instructions for each strength are determined by regulatory approval.


Q: Can Cinarex 25 cause changes in appetite?

A: Yes, regulatory documents list Weight increased as a Common side effect that may affect up to 1 in 10 people. This weight increase has been associated in some post-marketing reports with an increase in appetite and food intake.


Q: Can Cinarex 25 affect blood sugar levels?

A: Official regulatory safety documentation for Cinarex 25 does not typically list a direct or significant effect on blood glucose levels (blood sugar) as a known adverse event in the general patient population.


Q: Are there certain medical tests that are required while taking Cinarex 25?

A: Cinarex 25 is officially noted to interfere with the results of allergy skin tests due to its antihistamine effect. Product information includes a requirement to discontinue the medication several days prior to any planned allergy skin test to avoid interference with the results. No routine blood tests are generally required for most patients.


Q: Does Cinarex 25 require any special monitoring by a healthcare professional?

A: Yes. Official warnings advise that patients on long-term therapy, especially older adults, should be monitored by a doctor for the possible development of extrapyramidal symptoms (movement disorders) or Parkinsonism, which are documented risks in the safety profile.


Q: Are there any known severe allergic reactions associated with Cinarex 25?

A: Hypersensitivity (allergic reaction) to cinnarizine is listed as a contraindication, meaning the drug must not be used by individuals with a known allergy to it. Post-marketing surveillance has also reported rare but severe reactions like Lichen planus (a skin rash) and Subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus.


Q: What research is currently being done on Cinarex 25 or its class of drugs?

A: Beyond its established use, clinical trial registries indicate that research is ongoing to explore the effects of cinnarizine. Examples of research include exploring its potential for drug repurposing in other medical areas or studying its effects on specific biological pathways like mTORC1.


Q: What is the general success rate described in clinical trials for Cinarex 25?

A: Clinical trials for Cinarex 25 and its combination formulations used for treating vertigo have generally reported a high efficacy rate in reducing symptoms. Some studies indicate that a reduction in dizziness and vertigo symptoms was achieved in a high percentage of patients with certain forms of the condition after a prescribed course of treatment.

How should Cinarex 25 be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Cinarex 25?

The storage and disposal requirements for Cinarex 25 (cinnarizine 25 mg tablets) are based strictly on official regulatory guidelines to ensure product stability and safety.


Storage Requirements

The tablets must be stored at a temperature not exceeding 30°C, with some labels specifying not above 25°C. It is mandatory to protect the product from light and keep it in the original container. The medication must always be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Cinarex 25 should not be disposed of via household waste or flushed down wastewater. Disposal must be carried out in accordance with local pharmaceutical waste regulations and collection schemes. Consulting a pharmacist is the standard procedure for proper disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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