Yes, it can: the Dramamine Original Formula label warns that marked drowsiness may occur, and it says to be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery. The Dramamine Less Drowsy Formula contains meclizine 25 mg instead, and its label says drowsiness may occur.
Both are antiemetics for motion-sickness nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Both labels say to avoid alcoholic drinks while taking them; the Less Drowsy label says alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness, and the Original Formula label says they may increase dizziness.
What the two labels say
Two Dramamine products - Original Formula (dimenhydrinate 50 mg) and Less Drowsy Formula (meclizine 25 mg) - have different active ingredients, and each label has its own drowsiness wording:
Who should ask a doctor first
Both labels carry the same check-first list. Ask a doctor before use if you have:
- a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis
- glaucoma
- trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland
- or if you are taking sedatives or tranquilizers - that one is a doctor-or-pharmacist question on both labels
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, both labels say to ask a doctor before use. For children: the Original Formula label says do not give to children under 2 unless directed by a doctor; the Less Drowsy label sets that line at under 12. A pharmacist or your prescriber is the right reviewer for your full medication list. An AI consult can help you work out what to ask; it is not a substitute for that review.
Common questions
Does Dramamine make you sleepy?
It can: the Original Formula label warns that marked drowsiness may occur, and the Less Drowsy (meclizine) label says drowsiness may occur. Both labels say to be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery.
Does Dramamine Less Drowsy still make you drowsy?
It can. The Less Drowsy Formula contains meclizine 25 mg instead of dimenhydrinate, and its label says drowsiness may occur; it also says alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness.
How far ahead of a trip should I take it?
Both labels direct a first dose 1/2 to 1 hour before starting activity.
Can I drink alcohol with Dramamine?
Both labels say to avoid alcoholic drinks while using the product. The Less Drowsy label says alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness; the Original Formula label says they may increase dizziness.