Motion sickness (travel sickness, sea sickness, car sickness, air sickness) affects approximately 1 in 3 people with normal susceptibility, and some people almost universally on certain forms of transport. It has a well-understood mechanism — a sensory conflict between visual, vestibular (inner ear) and proprioceptive signals — and several effective pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
Why Motion Sickness Happens
The brain integrates signals from the eyes (visual information about movement), the vestibular system (inner ear — sensing acceleration, rotation and gravity), and proprioceptors (sensing body position). Motion sickness occurs when these signals conflict: in a car, the eyes (if reading or looking at a fixed interior surface) detect no movement, while the vestibular system detects motion. The brain interprets this mismatch as potential poisoning (an evolutionarily ancient response — ingesting neurotoxins causes similar vestibular disruption) and triggers nausea and vomiting as a protective response. Hence the instinctive remedies: looking at the horizon (synchronises visual and vestibular cues), fresh air, and focusing on a fixed external point.
Non-Pharmacological Strategies
Optimal seating position: front passenger seat in cars (best visual-vestibular alignment); over the wing in aircraft (least turbulence); mid-ship on vessels (least roll). Look at the horizon: fixes the visual reference and reduces sensory conflict. Avoid reading or screen use in moving vehicles — particularly in cars. Fresh air and ventilation: reduces nausea. Avoid large meals and alcohol before travel. Ginger: the most evidence-backed non-pharmacological option. Ginger (gingerols and shogaols) has demonstrated antiemetic effects in multiple studies — not as potent as medication but effective for mild motion sickness. 1–2g of ginger (capsules, crystallised ginger) 30–60 minutes before travel. Acupressure wristbands (Sea-Bands): target the P6 (Nei-Kuan) acupoint on the inner wrist. Evidence is mixed but some positive trials for seasickness and postoperative nausea; very safe; worth trying.
Pharmacological Treatments
Hyoscine (Kwells, Joy-Rides, Scopoderm patches): the most effective OTC treatment for motion sickness. Anticholinergic, blocks muscarinic receptors in the vomiting centre and reduces vestibular input. Take 30–60 minutes before travel. Drowsiness, dry mouth common. Scopoderm transdermal patches (prescription-only) provide 72-hour coverage — excellent for cruises and long sea voyages. Not suitable for children under 10, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, or in combination with other anticholinergics. Promethazine (Phenergan): first-generation antihistamine with antiemetic properties. Available OTC. Highly sedating — not suitable for drivers or anyone needing to remain alert. Cinnarizine (Stugeron): antihistamine with calcium channel blocking properties. Less sedating than promethazine; evidence specifically for seasickness. Available OTC from pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children take travel sickness tablets?
Yes, with age restrictions: Kwells Kids (hyoscine 75mcg) from age 4; promethazine (Phenergan) from age 2 (but causes significant sedation); cinnarizine from age 5. Ginger and acupressure wristbands are safe from any age. Always check the specific product age limits before giving to children.
Can I become less susceptible to motion sickness over time?
Yes — adaptation occurs with repeated exposure. Sailors, pilots and astronauts develop significantly reduced susceptibility through habituation of the vestibular system. Gradually increasing exposure and avoiding avoidance (which prevents adaptation) is the long-term approach.
Browse travel health products including Kwells, Stugeron and Sea-Bands at Huncoat Pharmacy. Related: Travel Vaccinations, Rehydration.
At Huncoat Pharmacy: Travel vaccinations, Malaria tablets, Browse travel sickness products.