Dramamine

Dramamine, scientifically known as dimenhydrinate, is an over-the-counter medication often used to alleviate symptoms related to motion sickness, such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. It belongs to the antihistamine class of drugs and is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid formulations.

Is Dramamine Addictive

Fortunately, Dramamine is not considered addictive in the same way that substances like opioids or stimulants are. However, it’s essential to highlight that some individuals may develop a psychological dependence on it. 

This can stem from the relief it provides from uncomfortable symptoms, leading to a pattern of frequent use even when not needed. Such behaviors can mimic addiction, but they’re more about seeking comfort rather than the classic biological mechanisms of addiction [2].

Biological Mechanisms Behind Dramamine Addictions

Unlike highly addictive substances that directly impact the brain’s reward system, Dramamine’s mechanism of action is different. It primarily targets histamine receptors in the brain to alleviate nausea and dizziness. 

The risk of addiction to Dramamine lies more in the psychological realm, as individuals might misuse it to manage stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues. Repeatedly turning to Dramamine for emotional relief can pave the way for habitual use, blurring the lines between medical necessity and psychological reliance [3].

How Is Dramamine Taken

Dramamine is typically taken orally and is recommended to be used as directed by a healthcare professional or according to the instructions on the packaging. 

Taking the medication with food is commonly advised to minimize potential stomach upset. It’s crucial to adhere to the recommended dosage and not exceed it, as doing so can lead to unwanted side effects [1].

How Common Is Dramamine Addiction

While not as extensively studied as other forms of substance abuse, cases of Dramamine addiction do exist. Some statistics provide insights into the potential scope of this issue:

• About 10.7% of high school seniors in the United States reported using non-prescription medications for recreational purposes, which can include drugs like Dramamine4.
• Cases of individuals seeking treatment for abuse of over-the-counter medications, including Dramamine, have been documented4.

Dramamine addiction, albeit not as common as addictions to other substances, is more likely to occur in certain demographics:

• Adolescents and young adults may be more prone due to experimentation and seeking thrill4.
• Individuals with a history of substance abuse or addiction might be at a higher risk of developing problematic usage patterns with Dramamine4.

Can You Get High on Dramamine?

Yes, it’s possible to get high on Dramamine, but the practice comes with significant risks. When taken in high doses, it can induce hallucinations and a dissociative state. This effect arises from the medication’s impact on neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine. However, this attempt to achieve a euphoric experience is dangerous and can lead to serious health complications.

Misusing Dramamine to get high involves consuming doses far beyond the recommended amounts for motion sickness relief. This practice is hazardous due to the drug’s side effects, which include rapid heart rate, blurred vision, confusion, and even seizures. 

Moreover, the line between achieving the desired high and suffering from life-threatening symptoms is dangerously thin. Combining Dramamine with other substances, such as alcohol or illicit drugs, intensifies the risks and can result in fatal outcomes.

Can Dramamine Addiction Be Fatal?

While Dramamine itself isn’t known to have fatal consequences when used as directed, excessive consumption can lead to severe health risks. Taking very high doses can cause Dramamine hallucinations, seizures, irregular heartbeats, and even death in extreme cases [3]. Moreover, as Dramamine can cause drowsiness, individuals who misuse it in high doses put themselves at risk while driving or operating heavy machinery.