Bonine Vs. Non-Drowsy Dramamine

Bonine and Dramamine are medications used to treat motion sickness. Symptoms of motion sickness include nausea, vomiting and dizziness.

A woman is feeling nauseous as she drives her car. (Image: Milenko Bokan/iStock/Getty Images)

Features

Bonine and Dramamine are both antihistamine medications that interfere with the release of histamine -- a natural substance in your body -- in your blood. According to MedlinePlus, antihistamines work by keeping your body in balance.

Side Effects

Because both medications belong to the antihistamine group of drugs, they share the following side effects: dizziness and blurry vision. However, Drugs.com indicates that Bonine can also cause dry mouth, drowsiness and constipation. MedlinePlus says that Dramamine can also cause ringing in your ears, hyperactivity in children and coordination problems.

Use

Both Bonine and Dramamine must be taken at least one hour prior to traveling or engaging in activities that result in motion sickness. These medications are available as chewable tablets and should be taken as instructed.

Other Uses

Drugs.com indicates that Bonine can be used to treat vertigo, a condition in which you feel like the room is spinning. MedlinePlus indicates that Dramamine can also treat Meniere's disease, an inner ear condition.

Generic Names

According to Drugs.com, Bonine's generic drug name is meclizine; Dramamine's generic drug name is dimenhydrinate.