Novomin 15mg/5ml Syrup

Novomin 15mg/5ml Syrup is an over-the-counter antihistamine syrup formulated to prevent and relieve motion sickness in children, including the nausea, vomiting, and dizziness that can occur during car, bus, boat, or air travel. Its active ingredient, dimenhydrinate, is a well-established antihistamine that has been used for decades to manage travel-related and other forms of nausea in both children and adults.

Available without a prescription at community pharmacies in Malaysia, Novomin Syrup is commonly used by parents to keep young travellers comfortable on journeys, day trips, and holidays. It is not intended for the ongoing treatment of unexplained or persistent vomiting, which should always be assessed by a doctor.

Dimenhydrinate is a first-generation antihistamine that blocks histamine H1 receptors and has anticholinergic activity in the vestibular system of the inner ear and the brain’s vomiting centre. By dampening the abnormal nerve signals that arise when the inner ear senses conflicting motion cues, it reduces the nausea, vomiting, and dizziness typical of motion sickness.

Shake the bottle well before use and measure the dose accurately using the measuring cup or oral syringe provided, not a household spoon. For best results, give the first dose 30 to 60 minutes before travel begins, and repeat doses as advised on the label or by a pharmacist or doctor for longer journeys. Always follow the age-appropriate dose and do not exceed the maximum daily amount stated on the packaging.

Dosage is based on the child’s age and body weight, so parents should always refer to the dosing chart on the product packaging or consult a pharmacist before giving Novomin Syrup to a child. As a general guide, lower doses are used for younger children and doses are typically given every 6 to 8 hours as needed, up to the maximum stated frequency per day. Novomin Syrup is not recommended for infants under 2 years of age unless specifically directed by a doctor.

Novomin 15mg/5ml Syrup typically has a shelf life of around 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture when unopened and stored correctly; always check the expiry date printed on the bottle and carton before use. Once opened, use the syrup within the period stated on the label, as its potency and quality may not be assured beyond that window.

Store Novomin Syrup below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use, and keep it out of reach and sight of children, as an accidental overdose in a child can be serious. Do not use the syrup if it has changed in colour, smell, or consistency.

• Known hypersensitivity to dimenhydrinate or other antihistamines
• Infants under 2 years of age, unless a doctor has advised otherwise
• Severe asthma or other significant breathing difficulties
• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate or bladder outflow obstruction (in older users)
• Uncontrolled epilepsy or seizure disorders, without medical advice

• Other sedating antihistamines or cough-and-cold products containing similar ingredients (risk of doubling the dose)
• Other medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives, sleep aids, or certain anti-anxiety medicines
• Alcohol, which can worsen drowsiness and dizziness (relevant for adult caregivers/older children)
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which may prolong and intensify antihistamine effects
• Medicines with anticholinergic effects, which may add to dry mouth, blurred vision, or urinary retention

• Give the first dose 30-60 minutes before travel starts for best effect
• Use only the measuring device supplied with the syrup for an accurate dose
• Do not give more than the maximum daily dose stated on the packaging
• Encourage the child to rest and stay hydrated during and after the journey
• Avoid giving other sedating antihistamine or cold/flu products at the same time
• See a doctor if vomiting is severe, persistent, or not clearly related to travel

Motion sickness in children is common and usually harmless, but persistent vomiting, vomiting with fever, abdominal pain, or vomiting unrelated to travel should be assessed by a doctor rather than self-treated. Parents of children with asthma, epilepsy, glaucoma, or urinary problems should check with a pharmacist or doctor before use. If in doubt about the correct dose for your child’s age and weight, DoctorOnCall’s pharmacist team or an online consultation can help confirm suitability before purchase.