Vertigo-Vomex SR

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Vertigo-Vomex SR

Method of action: Antiemetic

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Vertigo-Vomex SR

Property Description
Active Ingredient Dimenhydrinate
Form Sustained-Release (SR) Hard Capsule
Pharmacological Class Antihistamine H1 Receptor Antagonist
General Purpose Relief from Dizziness and Nausea
Origin Synthetic (Ethanolamine Derivative)

Classification and Chemical Composition

Vertigo-Vomex SR is a brand-specific pharmaceutical preparation whose primary active ingredient is Dimenhydrinate, a synthetic compound classified as an antihistamine H1 receptor antagonist. Dimenhydrinate is derived from the ethanolamine derivative subclass, defining it as a first-generation antihistamine with central nervous system activity. The compound is pharmacologically recognized for its dual role as an antiemetic (to prevent vomiting) and an antivertiginous agent (to counter dizziness). This component is often the medication of choice for people experiencing discomfort when traveling, such as during long journeys, providing a neutral use scenario.


The Sustained-Release (SR) Capsule Form

A differentiating factor of Vertigo-Vomex SR is its presentation as an SR-capsule (Sustained-Release hard capsule), which is intended for oral intake. This specific SR formulation is engineered to deliver the Dimenhydrinate gradually, ensuring the necessary systemic action is maintained consistently over an extended period. Sustained-release formulations are strategically employed when prolonged therapeutic activity is desired. This design ensures a steady therapeutic effect, distinguishing it from immediate-release tablets.


General Therapeutic Purpose

The overall purpose of Vertigo-Vomex SR is to provide general relief from the symptoms of disturbed balance. Its role as an antivertiginous agent means it is utilized to mitigate the acute sensations of dizziness, nausea, and vomiting commonly linked to vestibular disorders and motion sickness (kinetosis). The sustained systemic effect achieved through this specific formulation supports reliable modulation of these core symptoms for the adults and adolescents who form its primary patient group.

Regulatory References

  1. EMA guideline on the pharmacokinetic and clinical evaluation of modified-release dosage forms

What side effects are possible with Vertigo-Vomex SR?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for the active ingredient in Vertigo-Vomex SR, Dimenhydrinate, is defined by effects related to its antihistaminic and anticholinergic properties, as classified in official regulatory documents. Adverse reactions are systematically grouped by System-Organ Class and frequency.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The most frequent effects are generally related to Central Nervous System (CNS) depression, and may be most noticeable at the start of treatment or following a dose increase.

Classification Representative Adverse Effects
Very Common Somnolence (Drowsiness/Sedation)
Common Dry mouth, Headache, Tachycardia (Increased heart rate)
Uncommon Urinary retention, Gastrointestinal disturbances, Paradoxical excitement
Rare Allergic skin reactions, Blood dyscrasias

System-Organ Classes and Serious Reactions

Adverse effects are documented across several systems, including the Nervous System Disorders, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Cardiac Disorders, and Eye Disorders. While rare, the potential for serious adverse reactions is officially documented, including severe hypersensitivity reactions and blood dyscrasias.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Official labeling requires specific caution for certain patient groups. Older adults may exhibit increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects, which can manifest as confusion or increased risk of urinary retention. Caution is also advised in individuals with hepatic impairment, as this may lead to increased systemic exposure of the active ingredient. Children may be at a higher risk for paradoxical excitation.

Safety Restrictions

Use is officially constrained by pre-existing conditions such as acute narrow-angle glaucoma and prostatic hypertrophy associated with residual urine formation. Co-administration with other CNS depressants is noted in regulatory text to severely intensify effects like drowsiness.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdosage with Dimenhydrinate requires immediate medical attention. Official regulatory guidance mandates contacting local emergency services or the Poison Control Center if severe symptoms or changes in condition are observed.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

The documented clinical presentation of overdosage involves a spectrum of central nervous system (CNS) effects. These can range from CNS excitation—manifested as agitation, confusion, delirium, tremor, and hallucinations—to profound CNS depression, leading to excessive drowsiness and coma. Severe toxicity poses a life-threatening risk due to potential seizures (convulsions), significant respiratory depression, and critical cardiovascular effects, including serious heart rhythm disturbances and hypotension.

Specific signs of toxicity are often consistent with an anticholinergic syndrome, including dry mouth, fixed and dilated pupils, and urinary retention. Immediate medical help is required if the person experiences seizures, severe agitation, trouble breathing, or cannot be awakened.

Population and Management Notes

Regulatory documents specify that certain populations have increased risk; pediatric patients are particularly prone to severe excitation and convulsions, while elderly patients are more susceptible to severe dizziness and sedation. Management procedures focus on symptomatic and supportive treatment, which may include interventions like activated charcoal and continuous monitoring of vital signs and ECG to observe for cardiac instability.

Therapeutic Uses of Vertigo-Vomex SR

What Vertigo-Vomex SR Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The active ingredient in Vertigo-Vomex SR is commonly used to help with symptomatic relief in situations where dizziness, nausea, and vomiting create noticeable discomfort and interfere with daily stability.

This active ingredient is used for the management and easing of symptoms related to nausea, vomiting, and/or vertigo (dizziness). It is applied across therapeutic domains involving certain distressing symptoms, including the core symptoms of vertigo, balance disorders, and motion sickness.

“Symptomatic support helps ease the overall symptom burden and may assist with maintaining functional stability.”

Focus on Symptom Relief

This medication is used to address the core symptoms of vertigo—symptoms related to systemic imbalance—that are often associated with conditions like Ménière's disease and other inner ear disturbances. It provides supportive relief during acute and episodic manifestations and may assist with maintaining functional stability when symptoms become more noticeable. It is also relevant for easing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, specifically the accompanying sickness that frequently occurs alongside balance disorders, and is commonly used in situations where patients experience heightened symptoms, such as during travel.


Quick Fact: Symptomatic Relief Focus

Vertigo-Vomex SR is commonly used across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms related to travel or inner ear disturbance, offering symptomatic relief that may contribute to improved comfort during difficult episodes.

Regulatory References

  1. Health Canada

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Vertigo-Vomex SR

Official regulatory documents strictly define the patient populations permitted to use Vertigo-Vomex SR (Dimenhydrinate sustained-release) and those for whom use is prohibited or limited.


Eligibility Scope

Classification Status Populations and Conditions
Allowed Approved for Use Adults and Older Adults (Geriatric population).
Not Recommended Restricted Use Children and Adolescents under 18 years (SR form's safety/efficacy not established).
Patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Contraindicated Prohibited Use Known hypersensitivity to Dimenhydrinate or its components, narrow-angle glaucoma, acute bronchial asthma, pheochromocytoma, convulsive disorders (e.g., epilepsy), urine retention, and suspicion of raised intracranial pressure.

Eligibility Classifications (High-Level)

Eligibility severity classification (as defined in official documents): Contraindicated (Absolute prohibition), Not Recommended (Strong restriction), Use with Caution (Conditional restriction).

Regulatory basis (EMA / FDA / etc.): Statements are based on regulatory texts from national and intergovernmental health authorities.

Eligibility-context constraints (as defined in official documents): The main constraints relate to the drug's anticholinergic properties and the specific sustained-release formulation's lack of established pediatric data.


Resulting Eligibility Structure

Official eligibility statements:

  • The medicine is contraindicated in patients with specific conditions, including glaucoma and acute asthma.
  • Use is not established and not recommended for the sustained-release capsule in children and adolescents under 18 years.
  • Use is not recommended for individuals with severe hepatic or renal impairment or during pregnancy and lactation.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Regulatory documents define who can and cannot use this medicine by establishing specific rules that prohibit use in patients with designated contraindications and limit use in populations such as children and those with severe organ impairment. This structure ensures that use is confined to approved populations who do not possess pre-existing conditions that preclude eligibility for anticholinergic therapy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The active ingredient in Vertigo-Vomex SR, dimenhydrinate, is an antihistamine with prominent central nervous system (CNS) and anticholinergic properties, which is the basis for most documented interactions. Use with alcohol or other CNS depressants (such as sedatives, tranquillizers, hypnotics, or opioid analgesics) may lead to an additive increase in drowsiness and sedation.

Simultaneous use with medicines that also have anticholinergic effects (e.g., atropine, certain psychotropic medicines) may potentiate these effects, potentially worsening side effects such as dry mouth or blurred vision.

Combining this medicine with products that increase the QTc interval (which affects heart rhythm) is associated with an increased risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias and requires caution. Additionally, dimenhydrinate can interfere with the intended effect of other medicines; specifically, it may attenuate the therapeutic effect of betahistine, and their simultaneous use should be avoided. Prior or concurrent use of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) may also potentiate the anticholinergic effects of dimenhydrinate. Furthermore, dimenhydrinate may mask the early signs of ototoxicity (inner ear damage) caused by other drugs, which is a key procedural constraint.

Mechanism of Action

Central Pharmacodynamic Mechanism

The action of Dimenhydrinate is initiated by its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and engage central neurotransmitter systems. The molecule functions as an antagonist at two key receptor populations: the Histamine H1 Receptors ( H1 R) and the Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors ( mAChR). By competitively binding to these targets, Dimenhydrinate prevents the action of endogenous histamine and acetylcholine, respectively, within the central nervous system (CNS).

Pathway Modulation and Physiological Consequence

This blockade primarily affects the neuronal circuits within the brainstem. Specifically, antagonism within the vestibular nuclei modifies the neural output that processes sensory signals originating from the inner ear. Concurrently, H1 R blockade in the Chemoreceptor Trigger Zone (CTZ) reduces the intrinsic chemical sensitivity of this emetic monitoring area. The resulting physiological effect is a reduction of signal transmission within both the emetic and vestibular pathways, leading to the suppression of CNS excitability.

Dosage and Administration Information

The administration of Vertigo-Vomex SR is governed strictly by the product's sustained-release formulation and official standards, which mandate a specific oral dosing regimen. The medicine is provided only as a 120 mg Sustained-Release (SR) Hard Capsule for oral intake.


Official Administration Guidelines

Instruction Category Official Requirement
Route of Administration Oral.
Standard Adult Dose 1 capsule per administration (for adults over 56 kg).
Frequency and Limit 1 to 2 times daily; doses must be separated by approximately 8 hours. The maximum daily dose must not exceed 3 capsules (360 mg).
Intake Condition The capsule must be swallowed whole with liquid (e.g., water) and can be taken independently of meals.
Duration Constraint Use is strictly defined as short-term, typically not exceeding 2 weeks without medical guidance.
Pediatric Restriction The product is not for use in patients under 14 years of age.
Missed Dose Rule If a dose is missed, patients should continue the regular schedule and must not double the amount to compensate.

These instructions structure the use of the medicine by standardizing the frequency and maximum daily intake to align with the extended-release properties of the capsule. The explicit weight and age limits, combined with the short-term duration constraint, define the precise therapeutic parameters under which the product is officially used.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Vertigo-Vomex SR

The research into the active ingredient in Vertigo-Vomex SR, dimenhydrinate, primarily consists of studies exploring its use for symptoms associated with motion sickness, and for symptoms of dizziness and nausea linked to balance disorders. The sustained-release (SR) formulation is a delivery mechanism, but the core clinical research focuses on the properties of the active ingredient itself.


Evidence for Use in Motion Sickness (Kinetosis)

The use of dimenhydrinate for motion sickness was studied for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These studies were applied in research contexts often involving motion simulation environments. Researchers monitored participants, typically healthy adult volunteers, to evaluate outcomes related to the change in symptoms following exposure to the motion stimulus.

In these trials, studies monitored outcomes related to physical discomfort, such as the intensity of perceived dizziness and nausea, which were often tracked using patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort via rating scales. Research examined the outcomes related to perceived discomfort and symptom patterns reported in the studies that compared the active ingredient against a placebo. These studies contribute to the broader evidence landscape.


Evidence for Symptomatic Relief in Vestibular Vertigo

Dimenhydrinate was studied for symptoms of dizziness or vertigo and associated nausea in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations. This evidence base includes multiple RCTs, as well as subsequent systematic reviews and meta-analyses that explored and synthesized the findings of these trials. Studies monitored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance. Researchers often used specific assessment tools, such as the Mean Vertigo Score (MVS), a composite measure used in research exploring how symptoms change over time. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to how patients reported their experience during periods of increased symptom activity.

However, a notable limitation is that a significant amount of the high-level evidence synthesized in recent scientific reviews stems from trials involving a fixed-dose combination product containing dimenhydrinate and another drug. This means comparative evidence is lacking in some contexts for dimenhydrinate alone, specifically, within the context of these pooled analyses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Vertigo-Vomex SR (FAQ)


Q: Is Vertigo-Vomex SR the same as regular Vomex?

A: Vertigo-Vomex SR contains the same active ingredient, dimenhydrinate, as regular Vomex. The key difference is the sustained-release (SR) formulation, which is designed to deliver the medicine gradually over an extended period. This design is intended to provide a prolonged therapeutic effect compared to standard immediate-release forms.

Q: How long does Vertigo-Vomex SR take to start working?

A: According to the official product information for the sustained-release capsule, the medicine is described in product information as taking effect within 15 to 30 minutes after use. As it is an SR formulation, the release of the active ingredient continues over time to maintain this effect.

Q: Does the extended-release formula mean it lasts longer?

A: Yes, the sustained-release formula is intended to provide a prolonged therapeutic activity. Official information indicates the duration of the effect is generally described as lasting 3 to 6 hours.

Q: Are there any serious but rare side effects listed?

A: Official regulatory documentation describes the potential for serious adverse reactions, although they are rare. These include severe hypersensitivity reactions and certain blood disorders (blood dyscrasias). Other rare effects listed include allergic skin reactions.

Q: Does it interact with antidepressants?

A: The drug is noted to interact with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) and certain other psychotropic medicines (which includes some classes of antidepressants). Official documents describe that these combinations may potentiate anticholinergic effects, which can increase the risk of side effects like dry mouth.

Q: Is Vertigo-Vomex SR safe to use during pregnancy according to official sources?

A: Official regulatory documents clearly state that the use of Vertigo-Vomex SR is classified as not recommended during pregnancy. This stance is based on the available information regarding the active ingredient.

Q: What is the official guidance on using it while breastfeeding?

A: Official guidance classifies the use of this medicine while breastfeeding (lactation) as not recommended. This is a standard constraint defined in regulatory texts.

Q: Have there been studies comparing Vertigo-Vomex SR to other vertigo treatments?

A: Regulatory overviews of the research indicate that a large part of the high-level scientific evidence stems from trials of a fixed-dose combination product containing dimenhydrinate and another drug. Consequently, comparative evidence is noted as lacking in some research contexts for dimenhydrinate when used alone.

Q: Is there a risk of dependency with Vertigo-Vomex SR?

A: The product is intended for short-term use, typically not exceeding two weeks. Official information acknowledges the potential for tolerance and dependency to develop when the active ingredient is consumed in high doses or misused chronically.

Q: Does Vertigo-Vomex SR affect blood pressure?

A: Official documents list potential effects on the cardiovascular system. Common effects include tachycardia (an increased heart rate). While less frequent, minor increases in blood pressure and occasional low blood pressure (hypotension) have also been reported.

Q: Do you need a prescription for Vertigo-Vomex SR?

A: The regulatory classification of the active ingredient, dimenhydrinate, varies by region. In some countries, it may be available over-the-counter (OTC), while in others, it is classified as a Pharmacy medicine requiring consultation with a pharmacist.

Q: Can I take Vertigo-Vomex SR with common pain relievers?

A: Official guidance indicates the active ingredient does not have contraindications with certain common pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, official caution is noted, as concurrent use with prescription opioid analgesics can lead to an additive increase in drowsiness and sedation.

Q: Are there different strengths of Vertigo-Vomex SR?

A: The official product described in regulatory documents is presented as a 120 mg Sustained-Release (SR) Hard Capsule. Regulatory information for this specific brand primarily defines the use of this single strength.

Q: Is there any risk of overdose mentioned in regulatory information?

A: Yes. Regulatory information describes the risks and symptoms of overdose for the active ingredient. Symptoms of overdose may include impaired consciousness, drowsiness, hallucinations, and cardiovascular disturbances.

Q: Does Vertigo-Vomex SR help with tinnitus that comes with vertigo?

A: The medicine is officially indicated for the symptoms of dizziness and nausea. Official documents, however, mention tinnitus (ringing in the ears) as a very rare adverse effect of the active ingredient, not as a condition for which relief is claimed.

Q: Why is it recommended to swallow whole and not crush the SR tablet?

A: The sustained-release (SR) capsule must be swallowed whole to work correctly. Crushing or chewing the capsule is prohibited because it would disrupt the special formulation, causing the active ingredient to be released too quickly instead of gradually over time.

Q: Does Vertigo-Vomex SR contain lactose or other common allergens?

A: Official labeling (SmPC) lists all components, including excipients (inactive ingredients). The excipients often include components such as sucrose (sugar) and gelatin, and may include ingredients like lactose, depending on the specific product formulation.

Q: Is it used to treat BPPV specifically?

A: The official purpose of the medicine is to provide symptomatic relief from the dizziness, nausea, and vomiting linked to general vestibular disorders. While BPPV is a type of vestibular disorder, specific conditions like BPPV are not typically listed as an official indication in regulatory documents.

Q: How does the SR formulation technically release the ingredient?

A: The sustained-release (SR) capsule is engineered to deliver the active ingredient gradually over a longer timeframe. This prolonged release maintains a necessary systemic action consistently, ensuring the therapeutic effect lasts for an extended period.

Q: Can taking it at night help with sleep?

A: The most frequent adverse effect listed in official documents is somnolence, which is an intense feeling of drowsiness or sedation. While this is a noted side effect, regulatory documents state the drug is not officially indicated for use as a sleep aid.

Q: Do regulatory sources discuss its use for Ménière's disease?

A: The active ingredient is generally used for symptoms related to inner ear disturbances. Regulatory information suggests that dimenhydrinate is sometimes used for the symptomatic treatment of nausea and vertigo caused by Ménière's disease and other labyrinthine disturbances.

How should Vertigo-Vomex SR be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Vertigo-Vomex SR?

Official regulatory information mandates specific conditions for storing and disposing of Vertigo-Vomex SR sustained-release hard capsules.


Storage Requirements

Requirement Official Condition
Temperature Store at a temperature that does not exceed 25 C.
Child Safety Must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.
Stability Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired medicinal product must be disposed of according to national requirements. While general guidelines advise protection from excess heat and moisture, the labeling states there are no special requirements for disposing of the waste material itself.

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

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