Dimenhydrinate Withdrawal Symptoms & Detox

Dimenhydrinate withdrawal symptoms are similar to other drugs of abuse. Depending on how long the person was taking dimenhydrinate for and how much they took determines the severity of the withdrawal symptoms. Not every symptom will be experienced by every person going through dimenhydrinate withdrawal. The most common withdrawal symptoms are:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach cramps
• Discomfort
• Excitability

The length of dimenhydrinate withdrawal is not well known. Some people can experience withdrawal symptoms for up to 7 days. How long the withdrawal symptoms last also depends on how long someone has been taking it and how much they have been taking.

Medications that are used to treat dimenhydrinate withdrawal can only help manage the symptoms. Nausea and vomiting can be treated with several different medications. Some of the medications that may be used are ondansetron, promethazine, or metoclopramide. These all require a prescription, so seek medical attention if they are needed. These medications may help decrease the severity of nausea and vomiting and in some cases may stop it completely. If the symptoms are severe, fluids may need to be given through a vein.

Death from dimenhydrinate withdrawal has not been reported. Deaths related to dimenhydrinate overdose have been reported. People who overdose on dimenhydrinate may experience fatal heart rhythms or seizures. Death from overdose is very rare if treated within the first 24 hours after taking the drug.

Stopping dimenhydrinate cold turkey is a common way people try to stop using it. People who stop cold turkey are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. This method is not recommended unless a person is under medical supervision.

Managing the symptoms of dimenhydrinate withdrawal is difficult and should be done with the help of a medical professional. Understanding why the person is addicted to dimenhydrinate is an important part of managing withdrawal. If they started taking it to treat motion sickness or an inner ear problem, there may be a medical need for the drug. The original medical condition may need to be treated once dimenhydrinate use is stopped.

If going to a healthcare facility is not an option, the person experiencing withdrawal should be surrounded by people who are supportive and can recognize when additional help is needed. Excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration. Try to maintain good fluid intake, preferably water, during the withdrawal period.

People who are withdrawing from dimenhydrinate need to be in a supportive environment. Individuals in recovery are more likely to maintain their sobriety when family and friends are supportive and understanding. Unlike other medications that are abused, medications to help prevent relapse are not available for dimenhydrinate addiction. Supportive care and therapy are the only options available currently.