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Meclizine

Antihistamine / Antiemetic (Anti-Vertigo)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
3 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

H1-receptor antagonist with anticholinergic properties that suppresses vestibular input to the vomiting center and CTZ. Specifically targets vestibular-mediated nausea and vertigo. Less sedating than dimenhydrinate.

At a glance

Class
Antihistamine / Antiemetic (Anti-Vertigo)
Schedule
OTC
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for vestibular disease (peripheral vestibular syndrome — idiopathic, otitis
Dose
25–50 mg/dog
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Used for feline vestibular disease and motion sickness
Dose
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature below 25°C

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Vestibular signs improvementNausea resolutionSedation level
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Antivert
Bonine
Dramamine Less Drowsy

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Meclizine?
Meclizine is a antihistamine / antiemetic (anti-vertigo) used in pets. H1-receptor antagonist with anticholinergic properties that suppresses vestibular input to the vomiting center and CTZ. Specifically targets vestibular-mediated nausea and vertigo. Less sedating than dimenhydrinate.
What is Meclizine used for in pets?
Meclizine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for vestibular disease (peripheral vestibular syndrome — idiopathic, otitis; Used for feline vestibular disease and motion sickness.
What is the Meclizine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Meclizine is typically dosed as follows — Used for vestibular disease (peripheral vestibular syndrome — idiopathic, otitis: 25–50 mg/dog PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Meclizine dose for cats?
For cats, Meclizine is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline vestibular disease and motion sickness: undefined undefined PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Meclizine need a prescription?
Meclizine is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Antihistamine / Antiemetic).

Dimenhydrinate
H1 antihistamine that blocks vestibular input to the vomiting center, preventing motion sickness. The theophylline component provides mild CNS stimulation offsetting sedation.
dogcat
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