Can You Crush Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate)?

Answer

Thanks for reaching out to us! It's always a good idea to check with your pharmacist before crushing medications.

While many medications are perfectly safe to be crushed and administered, some should not be, including drugs that are 'enteric-coated' and most drugs that are delayed or extended-release.

As it concerns dimenhydrinate (the generic of Dramamine), it can safely be crushed and administered.

In fact, most dimenhydrinate tablets are scored (have the line through the middle of the tablet) or are chewable tablets. They are easy to split or crush.

If you plan on crushing the tablets and taking by mouth, I would recommend the chewable tablets since they are sweetened, and won't have a bitter taste.

Can You Give Crushed Dramamine Via G-Tube?

You specifically asked about giving crushed dimenhydrinate through a G-tube (gastrostomy (G) tube). This is a great question as considerations need to be taken for many different medications.

Some medications can clog G-tubes, such as sucralfate, antacids, crushed enteric-coated tablets, and cholestyramine. These need to be given carefully.

With crushed dimenhydrinate, there is no concern here. It is safe to give via G-tube.

Generally, the best practice when delivering medication through a G-tube is to crush the tablets to a fine powder and mix with 10 to 15 mL of water immediately prior to administration. Then, flush the tube afterward with at least 15 mL to 30 mL of water. Be sure to follow the guidance of your health care professional in this regard.

Final Words

Thanks again for your question and feel free to reach out again in the future!

What Is Dramamine?

Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) is used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. It is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by preventing problems with body balance.