Cinnarizine is a piperazine derivative, and compounds in this group generally possess antiemetic properties.
Cinnarizine causes some drowsiness, but antimuscarinic side effects do not appear to be a problem. Peak plasma concentrations occur 2-4 hours after administration, and the half-life is 3-6 hours.
For adults, a loading dose of 30 mg is recommended two hours before the start of a journey, followed by one 15mg tablet every eight hours throughout the journey. Half this dose may be given to children aged 5-12 years, but cinnarizine is not licensed for use in younger children.