Motion sickness can turn a simple journey into an uncomfortable experience, whether you are travelling by car, coach, boat or plane. Nausea, dizziness, sweating and feeling generally unwell are all common symptoms, and they can affect adults and children. If you are looking for practical options, motion sickness tablets can be an effective way to prevent symptoms and help you travel more comfortably. At Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter, we help patients choose suitable treatments and understand how to use them safely.
Motion sickness happens when your brain receives mixed signals from the inner ear, eyes and body. For example, you may be reading in a moving car while your inner ear senses motion, creating a sensory mismatch that triggers nausea. The good news is that prevention and early action often work best, and there are both medication and non-medication strategies that can make a noticeable difference.
Which Motion Sickness Tablets are Available?
Several types of motion sickness tablets are available in the UK, and the best option depends on your age, the type of journey and how sensitive you are to travel. Some medicines work by calming the balance signals in the inner ear, while others act on nausea pathways in the brain. Our pharmacists can help you select an appropriate option, especially if you take regular medication or have an existing health condition.
Common options may include antihistamine-based travel sickness tablets. Some can cause drowsiness, which may be useful for long journeys but less suitable if you need to drive or stay alert. Other formulations are marketed as less sedating, but suitability still depends on the person.
✔ Different products suit different journey types and durations
✔ Some tablets can cause drowsiness, so timing matters
✔ Age restrictions vary, especially for children
✔ Existing conditions and medicines can affect suitability
Call us at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter if you would like help choosing the right motion sickness tablets for your trip.
How to Take Motion Sickness Tablets for Best Results
Motion sickness tablets are often most effective when taken before travel begins. Many products recommend taking a dose 30 to 60 minutes before departure, allowing time for the medicine to start working. If you wait until you feel unwell, it can be harder to control symptoms, particularly nausea.
Following the dosage instructions carefully is essential. Taking more than recommended will not necessarily improve results and may increase side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth or blurred vision. On extended trips, certain medications need to be taken again at specific intervals, so preparing in advance can help maintain comfort for the duration of your journey.
Non-Medication Tips That Can Reduce Motion Sickness
Motion sickness tablets can be highly useful, but combining them with practical travel habits may improve results further. Small changes to how you travel can reduce sensory mismatch and help settle symptoms before they build.
✔ Sit where movement is felt least, such as the front of a car or the middle of a boat
✔ Look at the horizon rather than focusing on screens or books
✔ Keep the air fresh and avoid strong smells
✔ Eat light meals and avoid heavy, greasy foods before travel
✔ Take regular breaks on long car journeys
Some individuals may find that acupressure wristbands or ginger-based products provide mild relief, though effectiveness can differ from person to person. If symptoms are frequent or severe, professional advice is recommended to rule out other causes of dizziness or nausea.
Who Should Take Extra Care?
Motion sickness tablets are not suitable for everyone, and certain groups should take extra care. Children may require specific products and dosages, and some medicines are not recommended below certain ages. Pregnancy, breastfeeding and existing medical conditions can also affect which options are appropriate.
If you have glaucoma, prostate enlargement, breathing conditions or take sedating medication, it is particularly important to speak with our pharmacists first. Side effects such as drowsiness may also affect driving safety, so always check warnings on the packaging and plan accordingly.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Occasional motion sickness is common, but persistent nausea or dizziness outside travel can indicate other health concerns. If your symptoms are worsening, unusually severe or accompanied by headaches, hearing changes or balance problems, professional assessment is advisable.
Contact us if you want support choosing the most appropriate motion sickness tablets or if you need advice for a child, pregnancy or an existing condition.
Choosing the Right Motion Sickness Tablets for Your Journey
The best motion sickness tablets depend on the type of travel, how long you are travelling and how your body responds to medication. Some people prefer drowsy formulations for overnight trips, while others need daytime options that allow them to remain alert. Having a plan in place before you travel helps you avoid discomfort and enjoy your journey with greater confidence.
Travel More Comfortably with Expert Support
When taken as directed and supported by simple travel measures, motion sickness tablets are often effective in reducing nausea and dizziness. Choosing the right product and timing it properly can make a significant difference.
If you would like tailored advice on the best treatment for your journey, book now at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter for professional guidance and personalised support.
This blog post was written on behalf of Luxtons Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.