indication

For use in the prevention and symptomatic treatment of peripheral (labyrinthine) vertigo and associated nausea and vomiting that occur in such conditions as Meniere's disease and surgery of the middle and inner ear. Also for the control of nausea and vomiting associated with postoperative states, malignant neoplasms, labyrinthine disturbances, antineoplastic agent therapy, radiation sickness, and infectious diseases.

pharmacology

Diphenidol is used for control of nausea and vomiting. It has an antivertigo effect on the vestibular apparatus, inhibiting the chemoreceptor trigger zone to control nausea and vomiting, thus preventing motion sickness.

mechanism of action

The mechanism by which diphenidol exerts its antiemetic and antivertigo effects is not precisely known. It is thought to diminish vestibular stimulation and depress labyrinthine function and as an antimuscarinic agent. An action on the medullary chemoreceptive trigger zone may also be involved in the antiemetic effect. Diphenidol has no significant sedative, tranquilizing, or antihistaminic action. It has a weak peripheral anticholinergic effect.

toxicity

Symptoms of overdose include drowsiness (severe); shortness of breath or troubled breathing; unusual tiredness or weakness (severe).

absorption

Well absorbed from gastrointestinal tract following oral administration.

half life

4 hours