Dramamine is a medicine that treats the symptoms associated with motion sickness. These symptoms include nausea, vomiting and dizziness. The medication may also help nausea associated with pregnancy or after surgery, according to Drugs.com. Dramamine is available over-the-counter in 50 mg tablets for adults. Taking the medicine 30 minutes prior to the activity that causes motion sickness helps increase the possibility of a positive effect. The ingredients in Dramamine include the active ingredient dimenhydrinate as well as additional inactive ingredients.
Dimenhydrinate
As the active ingredient in Dramamine, dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine and works on the brain to decrease symptoms associated with motion sickness. Common side effects of dimenhydrinate include drowsiness and feelings of dryness in the mouth, nose and throat. It is important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until the effects of the medication are known. The ingredient may also cause an increased sensitivity to the sun.
Anhydrous Lactose
Dramamine contains an inactive ingredient called anhydrous lactose. This agent---derived from milk--works to sweeten the taste of the medicine, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Collodial Silicon Dioxide
Collodial silicon dioxide is a chemical compound found in Dramamine. The function of this powdered ingredient is to act as a filler compound for the tablet.
Croscarmellose Sodium
Croscarmellose sodium is another inactive ingredient found in Dramamine, according to the manufacturer. In the tablet, the croscarmellose sodium helps disintegrate the medication.
Magnesium Stearate
Magnesium stearate is another inactive ingredient found in Dramamine. This ingredient, referred to as an excipient, assists in holding the medication together. The magnesium stearate also helps protect the stability of the medicine for a longer shelf life, according to the American Chemical Society. Another function of this ingredient is to cover up an unpleasant taste of the active ingredient. Magnesium stearate also assists in getting the dimenhydrinate to the brain.
Microcrystalline Cellulose
Microcrystalline cellulose is a product that occurs naturally in wood pulp and is another excipient in Dramamine. Like magnesium stearate, this ingredient holds the medication together and helps disperse the active ingredient to the brain.
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