Nauzine

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Nauzine

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

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 Nauzine

Nauzine: Definition and Pharmacological Classification

Nauzine is a pharmaceutical preparation containing the active ingredient Cyclizine Hydrochloride, primarily classified as an antiemetic agent and an anti-vertigo drug. This medicine belongs to the first-generation antihistamine group, known chemically as a piperazine derivative.

Property Description
Active ingredient Cyclizine Hydrochloride
Form Oral tablet, Parenteral solution
Pharmacological class Antiemetic Agent, First-Generation Antihistamine
Common use Relief from nausea, vomiting, and dizziness
Origin Synthetic compound

As an established therapeutic agent, Cyclizine's classification as a first-generation antihistamine defines its ability to act on the central nervous system to manage symptoms of nausea and vomiting. The drug is effective in counteracting emesis and addressing symptoms of disequilibrium or dizziness stemming from vestibular disorders. Cyclizine is utilized for the prevention and treatment of nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. This confirms that the medication is reliable for disturbances related to travel and inner-ear balance and is clinically recognized for this purpose.


Composition, Origin, and Available Forms

The active component, Cyclizine Hydrochloride, is a synthetic compound manufactured for therapeutic use and is present in Nauzine as a single-ingredient product. Nauzine is most commonly supplied to patients as an oral tablet; however, it is also available as a sterile aqueous solution for parenteral (injection) administration in clinical settings when acute, rapid action is required. This dual availability is a key differentiating feature for the Cyclizine formulation.

The efficacy of the compound against nausea and vertigo is well-documented, with its dual mechanism of action observed in pharmacological contexts. Cyclizine is categorized as an essential medicine for its role as an antiemetic. This status signifies that the medicine is globally recognized for providing fundamental relief.


What is the General Purpose of Cyclizine?

The essential purpose of Cyclizine is to provide targeted, effective relief from general nausea, vomiting, and associated dizziness. By addressing the central systems that govern equilibrium and the vomiting reflex, the medication successfully mitigates the uncomfortable physical symptoms of disequilibrium and gastric distress. For example, it is typically used by individuals preparing for a journey to prevent the onset of motion sickness. This action is invaluable for managing acute symptom presentation associated with various conditions that affect the body's sense of balance.

Regulatory References

  1. World Health Organization
  2. WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines

What side effects are possible with Nauzine?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Nauzine (Sodium Citrate Dihydrate/Dextrose/Fructose) primarily outlines specific patient populations for whom the product is contraindicated or requires caution, and lists potential adverse reactions by severity.

Adverse Reactions

Classification Examples of Reactions
Serious Adverse Reactions Fainting, swelling of the face, arms, or legs, unexplained weight loss, unusual bleeding, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), or signs of Hereditary Fructose Intolerance.
Less Common Side Effects Stomach or abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

Serious adverse reactions require immediate medical attention. Use of the product should be stopped and a healthcare provider consulted if nausea persists for more than two weeks or recurs frequently.

Safety Restrictions and Warnings

Nauzine is contraindicated for use in individuals with Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI) due to the presence of fructose in the formulation.

Special caution is advised for certain individuals due to the product’s composition:

  • Phenylketonuria (PKU): The chewable tablets contain 4.5 mg of phenylalanine per tablet (from Aspartame).
  • Diabetes: Caution is necessary because the product contains sugar.
  • Sodium-Restricted Diets: Each chewable tablet contains 60 mg of sodium, requiring consultation for those on sodium-restricted diets.
  • Drug Interactions: Consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary when taking other medications, as this product may interact with certain prescription drugs.

For pregnancy and breastfeeding, a health professional should be consulted before use. Safety and efficacy are not established for children under 18 years of age, and use in this population should be under a doctor's direction.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Nauzine (Cyclizine Hydrochloride) overdose is documented by regulatory authorities as potentially severe, primarily due to its effects on the Central Nervous System (CNS) and its anticholinergic properties.


Documented Overdose Manifestations

Overdose may present with a range of serious CNS effects, including profound depression (such as drowsiness, impaired consciousness, and coma) and, conversely, paradoxical excitation (including convulsions or seizures, hyperkinesia, and hallucinations). Anticholinergic signs like tachycardia (rapid heart rate), blurred vision, and urinary retention are also documented. Severe outcomes reported in regulatory information include respiratory depression and cardiovascular collapse, with fatal outcomes having been reported.


Required Emergency Actions

Immediate medical attention is essential if an overdose is suspected or if severe symptoms such as seizures, uncontrolled movements, or hallucinations occur. This regulatory requirement is paramount because no specific antidote is known for Cyclizine overdose. Treatment, as described in official documents, is symptomatic and supportive, which may involve maintaining respiratory function, correction of fluid imbalance, gastric lavage, or the use of parenteral anticonvulsant therapy to control seizures. Regulatory guidance notes that younger children are more susceptible to convulsions in overdose situations, and the elderly population may have an increased risk of toxicity.

Therapeutic Uses of Nauzine

What Nauzine treats: main uses and benefits

Nauzine (Cyclizine Hydrochloride) is a medication used for its antiemetic properties, providing supportive relief for certain distressing symptoms related to systemic imbalance. It is commonly applied in contexts where temporary, supportive assistance is needed to manage acute or episodic discomfort.

The medication is relevant for easing the manifestations of nausea or vomiting and may be part of symptomatic management for conditions such as motion sickness, vertigo, and sickness associated with general anaesthetics or certain inner ear problems.


Therapeutic Domains and Patient Benefit

Nauzine is primarily used to address the combined symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It is considered relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, including travel sickness, vestibular disorders (like Ménière's disease), and post-operative recovery. Applied across these domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, this benefit generally supports the patient during difficult episodes and assists with maintaining comfort.

This supportive relief may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations and contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods of heightened discomfort.


“It is commonly applied in scenarios where symptoms create noticeable physiological strain and temporary assistance in symptom management is appropriate.”


Quick Fact: Symptomatic support for Nausea and Disequilibrium

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Nauzine?

Eligibility for Nauzine is determined by specific age limits and pre-existing medical or metabolic conditions, as outlined in official government documentation.

Populations Who Must Not Use Nauzine (Contraindicated)

Use of Nauzine is strictly contraindicated for individuals with Hereditary Fructose Intolerance (HFI). This exclusion is mandatory because the product contains fructose.

Populations Requiring a Health Professional Consultation

The following groups are instructed to ask a doctor or health professional before use due to the product's composition or physiological status:

Population Group Reason for Consultation
Age under 18 Safety and efficacy not established for general use in children.
Pregnancy or Breastfeeding Requires professional guidance before use.
Diabetes The product contains sugar.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) The product contains phenylalanine.
Sodium-Restricted Diet The product contains sodium (60 mg per tablet).

Eligibility is defined by regulatory bodies as generally appropriate for healthy adults (18 years and older), but constraints are placed on use when the patient has a specific condition that interacts with the drug's listed ingredients.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile for Nauzine (Cyclizine Hydrochloride) is defined primarily by potential pharmacodynamic additive effects that are documented in official regulatory labeling.

Documented Interaction Patterns

Interaction Entity Interaction Type and Official Outcome
CNS Depressants (e.g., Sedatives, Tranquillisers) Pharmacodynamic additive effect leading to increased CNS depression (enhanced sedation).
Anticholinergic Drugs (e.g., Tricyclic Antidepressants) Pharmacodynamic additive action causing enhanced anticholinergic side-effects.
Opioid Analgesics (e.g., Pethidine) Officially noted to enhance the sedating effect and may counteract haemodynamic benefits of the opioid.

Regulatory Restrictions and Specific Constraints

Nauzine is formally contraindicated in the context of acute alcohol intoxication. This prohibition is documented because the medication's anti-emetic property may increase the toxicity of the co-administered alcohol, a specific regulatory constraint.

Regulatory documents further include notes for specific populations, advising caution in cases of severe hepatic impairment. This is based on the drug's hepatic metabolism, which creates a risk for increased systemic exposure and enhanced pharmacodynamic effects if clearance is compromised. No mandatory timing-based separation rules are explicitly documented in primary regulatory labels.

Mechanism of Action

How Nauzine Works

Central Dual Antagonism

Nauzine's mechanism of action involves functioning as a dual antagonist by binding to and blocking Histamine H1 receptors and Muscarinic Acetylcholine M1 receptors within the brainstem. . The molecule's central activity facilitates suppression of signal transmission within the neural pathways connecting the vestibular and emetic centers.


Modulation of the Vestibular-Emetic Pathway

The primary physiological consequence of this dual receptor blockade is the modulation of signal flow and reduction of neuronal excitability in the vestibular nuclei and the vomiting center. By interrupting the excitatory input from the inner ear and the Chemoreceptor Trigger Zone (CTZ), the drug initiates or suppresses signaling sequences that lead to downstream physiological effects. The mechanism influences the regulation of afferent signal processing in these centers, and this action alters the signaling dynamics within the affected efferent pathways.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Nauzine: Official Administration Guidelines

Nauzine (Cyclizine Hydrochloride) is administered via two primary routes: the oral route, typically as a 50 mg tablet, and the parenteral route, as a 50 mg/mL solution for intramuscular (IM) or slow intravenous (IV) injection. The choice of route depends on the setting, with parenteral use often reserved for acute needs in clinical environments.

Standard Labeled Dosing and Scheduling

Dosing recommendations may vary by region; the following regimens are based on established product labeling.

Population/Age Single Dose Maximum Frequency / 24-Hour Maximum
Adults (Oral) 50 mg Up to 3 times daily or not to exceed 200 mg in 24 hours.
Children 6–12 (Oral) 25 mg Up to 3 times daily, with a maximum limit.

For the prevention of motion sickness, the first oral dose should be taken approximately 30 minutes to 2 hours before the start of travel. Subsequent doses are separated by an interval of several hours, depending on the specific label. When administering the injection intravenously, the dose must be injected slowly over a period of at least 3 to 5 minutes; the solution may be diluted prior to this slow administration.

Population and Contextual Rules

Nauzine is not recommended for use in children under 6 years of age. If an oral dose is missed, the protocol is to take the next dose at the usual time and not take a double dose to compensate. In acute care settings, parenteral treatment is typically not intended to continue beyond 48 hours. The tablets may be taken either with or without food.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Nauzine

Evidence for Use in Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV)

Nauzine (Cyclizine) was studied in a number of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and supporting Systematic Reviews that examined symptom monitoring following surgery. Research examined outcomes related to physical discomfort, specifically measuring the number of vomiting and retching episodes and the intensity of nausea using scale scores in the immediate recovery phase. Studies primarily included adults undergoing general surgical procedures.

Studies monitored how symptoms evolved in the observed populations during the short time frame following the procedure. Studies reported measurements related to the frequency of need for additional antiemetic support in the immediate hours after surgery; the findings were observed in comparison to other study interventions. Follow-up durations were limited, typically covering only the initial 24 to 48 hours, meaning long-term effects are not fully established beyond the acute recovery window.


Evidence for Use in Motion Sickness and Vestibular Symptoms

Research examined conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, such as motion sickness and the dizziness, nausea, and vomiting associated with vestibular disorders. The evidence base includes a blend of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), many of which are historical, along with Observational studies focused on acute or temporary physiological imbalance. Research explored patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.

Research describes patterns in how patient-reported experiences of nausea and dizziness evolved during studies of motion sickness. For vestibular conditions, observational data spanning longer periods described how researchers followed symptoms. Evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns based on a long history of clinical use.

There is a relative absence of large-scale contemporary RCTs specifically comparing Nauzine to both placebo and newer active control agents, meaning evidence quality varies across studies. The existing evidence findings indicate patterns related to symptom monitoring during acute episodes.


Research Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

Evidence is limited in key areas, and data are still emerging for some populations and for long-term use. Data for certain groups remain insufficient, especially for consistent evidence in all pediatric age ranges. Overall, research provides insight into short-term changes but does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly, as study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted.

Key Studies & References

  1. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (Relevant section for Palliative Care)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Nauzine (FAQ)


Q: How quickly can a person expect Nauzine to start working?

Following oral administration, the effects of Nauzine typically begin within approximately 30 minutes. The medicine’s maximum effect is generally reached within one to two hours after administration, according to official product information.

Q: How long does the effect of Nauzine typically last?

Regulatory documents indicate that the effects from a single oral dose of Nauzine generally last for approximately four to six hours. This documented duration is consistent with the typical recommended dosing intervals found in regulatory information.

Q: Are there generic versions of Nauzine available?

Nauzine is the brand name for the active ingredient, Cyclizine Hydrochloride. This active component is available globally under various names and in multiple generic forms, which contain the same active ingredient.

Q: Can Nauzine be taken long-term, or is it only for short-term use?

Nauzine is principally used for acute or temporary conditions, such as motion sickness. Official information notes that long-term use is often not established in clinical trials, as studies primarily focus on acute treatment periods. Caution is noted for potential cumulative effects during prolonged use.

Q: Can I take Nauzine if I also take supplements like vitamins or herbal remedies?

Official guidance advises consulting a pharmacist or health professional before taking any herbal remedies, vitamins, or dietary supplements alongside Nauzine. This is because some non-prescription products may potentially enhance the known side effects of this medicine.

Q: Can Nauzine be used during breastfeeding according to regulatory guidance?

Regulatory information indicates that the drug is excreted into human milk. Use during breastfeeding is generally not recommended, and official advice cautions about the potential for infant sedation or other effects. Professional discussion prior to use is indicated by the official guidance.

Q: What is the process for discontinuing Nauzine as described in official sources?

Regulatory documentation describes that for long-term or regular use, abrupt cessation is not advised due to the potential for withdrawal symptoms. The description refers to a gradual reduction of the dosage under professional guidance to help avoid potential symptoms like anxiety or restlessness.

Q: Does taking Nauzine require any regular monitoring tests?

There are no mandatory routine monitoring tests specified for all patients taking Nauzine. However, official information advises caution for specific patient groups, such as those with hepatic impairment (liver problems), which are conditions where the official label indicates caution and the need for appropriate monitoring is mentioned.

Q: Can Nauzine cause changes in appetite or weight?

Adverse event data collected by regulatory bodies includes reports of decreased appetite or loss of appetite. Additionally, unexplained weight loss is listed in official documents as a serious adverse reaction.

Q: Is it normal to feel tired or dizzy when first taking Nauzine?

Regulatory documents list drowsiness or sleepiness as a very common side effect. Dizziness is also listed as a less common, but documented, adverse reaction to the medication.

Q: Does taking Nauzine affect blood test results?

While not a general caution, regulatory-sourced adverse event reports include rare instances of effects on the liver, such as liver test abnormalities or cholestatic jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), which can be detected through blood tests.

Q: What should I tell my pharmacist when I pick up Nauzine?

Official guidance stresses the importance of informing the pharmacist about all other prescription or over-the-counter medicines being taken. The guidance indicates that relevant pre-existing medical conditions, such as glaucoma or urinary retention, should also be communicated.

Q: Do common foods or drinks affect how Nauzine works?

Official administration instructions state that Nauzine tablets may be taken with or without food. However, regulatory documents formally contraindicate the use of this medication in the context of acute alcohol intoxication due to enhanced effects.

Q: Are there any specific safety warnings for older adults taking Nauzine?

Official information advises caution for older adults. Regulatory guidance highlights that lower doses are generally considered in this population due to a potential for increased sensitivity to the drug's sedative and anticholinergic side effects.

Q: Can Nauzine be used by children?

Nauzine is not recommended for children under 6 years of age. While some labels specify lower doses for children between 6 and 12, regulatory bodies often note that safety and efficacy are not established for general use under 18.

Q: Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while taking Nauzine?

The official warning advises against driving or operating dangerous machinery until an individual is certain of the medicine's effect on their alertness and coordination, due to the potential for drowsiness and dizziness.

Q: Does Nauzine cause 'brain fog' or difficulty concentrating?

Regulatory documents list central nervous system effects such as confusion and psychomotor impairment as potential adverse reactions. These effects are related to the cognitive changes often described as 'brain fog'.

Q: Can a person develop a tolerance to Nauzine over time?

Information sourced from regulatory documents notes that long-term use of the medication may lead to the development of tolerance. This means the antiemetic effects may lessen over time.

Q: What is the risk of withdrawal symptoms if Nauzine is stopped?

Regulatory documentation states that if the medicine has been used continuously or for a long period, withdrawal symptoms may occur upon sudden cessation. These symptoms can include feelings of agitation, anxiety, or shaking.

Q: What does the official product information say about Nauzine and pregnancy?

Specific regulatory classifications for use during pregnancy vary by region. The manufacturer often advises that a health professional should be consulted before use, and avoidance is frequently recommended unless medically necessary.

Q: Is Nauzine considered a controlled substance?

Regulatory databases indicate that the active ingredient, Cyclizine, is not classified as a controlled substance under regulatory acts like the U.S. Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

Q: Why does Nauzine need to be taken at a specific time of day?

Nauzine is often taken on an as-needed basis or multiple times daily due to its short duration of effect. Regulatory guidance for preventing motion sickness often specifies that the initial dose should be administered 30 minutes to 2 hours before travel to ensure the medicine is active when needed.

Q: Can Nauzine cause changes in sleep patterns?

Changes to sleep patterns are documented in regulatory reports. Reported side effects include sleep disturbances, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), and sometimes euphoria.

Q: How is Nauzine processed by the body?

The drug is well absorbed after being taken orally. It is primarily metabolized in the liver into its main derivative, norcyclizine. The plasma elimination half-life (the time it takes for half the drug to be removed) is approximately 20 hours.

Q: Can Nauzine affect mood even if it's not a primary mental health drug?

Adverse event reports sourced from regulatory documents include psychiatric effects such as confusion, agitation, and nervousness. These documented reactions represent potential changes in a person's mood or cognitive status.

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

Official product information for the tablets often shows that they are manufactured with a score line. This line is designed to facilitate breaking for ease of swallowing or dividing into equal doses if required.

Q: Why is Nauzine sometimes given as an 'add-on' therapy?

The drug's primary mechanism involves blocking two specific receptors (Histamine H1 and Muscarinic M1). Clinical studies have examined its use alongside other antiemetic medicines to leverage its dual mechanism of action for comprehensive symptom control in settings like post-operative care.

Q: Can Nauzine affect a person's energy levels?

Official adverse event reports document effects on energy levels. These reported effects include drowsiness, somnolence, fatigue, and weakness/asthenia.

Q: Are there reports of Nauzine causing long-term side effects?

While long-term clinical trial data are limited, post-marketing adverse event reports list rare instances of serious reactions including cholestatic hepatitis or extrapyramidal symptoms, which are documented in regulatory sources.

Q: Is Nauzine available in liquid form?

In addition to the standard tablets and parenteral solution for injection, the active ingredient is available in an oral liquid formulation in some regions.

Q: Why is Nauzine prescribed over a short versus a long period of time?

Nauzine is principally indicated for managing acute or temporary conditions like motion sickness. Regulatory information advises caution with long-term use due to the potential for tolerance and the accumulation of side effects over time.

Q: How does the body eliminate Nauzine?

After the medicine is metabolized in the liver, only a small fraction (less than 1% of the dose) is eliminated from the body via the urine over the first 24 hours.

How should Nauzine be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Nauzine (Cyclizine Hydrochloride)

Official regulatory documentation defines specific requirements for the storage and disposal of Nauzine to maintain its quality and ensure safety.

Required Storage Conditions

Nauzine must be stored at a temperature below 25 C to protect the product throughout its documented shelf life. The labeling also requires that the container be kept tightly closed and stored in a safe place. Crucially, as with all medicines, the product must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Official instructions strictly advise not to throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Instead, unused or expired product should be disposed of by asking a pharmacist for guidance on the correct procedures to ensure compliance with local regulations and environmental protection.

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

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