OTC: Travel Health

Pharmacists play an essential role in helping travelers prepare for common health issues they may encounter on the road, from motion sickness to dehydration and digestive upset. By providing professional guidance on active ingredients and appropriate dosages, pharmacists ensure that travelers have the correct tools in their travel medicine kits for safe and effective relief.

Best for 24-Hour Motion Sickness Relief

Bonine Tablets

Active Ingredient: Meclizine HCl 25 mg

Manufacturer: WellSpring Pharmaceutical Corporation

Bonine tablets are designed to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, or dizziness associated with motion sickness. This fruity raspberry chewable tablet is a convenient addition to any travel kit, offering less drowsiness than Original Dramamine.

• The medication provides a full 24 hours of relief, allowing travelers to focus on their journey rather than their symptoms.
• Adults and children 12 years and older should take 1 to 2 tablets once daily, or as directed by a doctor. For maximum effectiveness, the dose should be taken one hour before travel starts.
• Store the tablets at room temperature, between 20 °C and 25 °C (68 °F and 77 °F).

Best for Portable Rehydration

Pedialyte Powder Packs

Active Ingredients: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, and Dextrose

Manufacturer: Abbott

Pedialyte Powder Packs are a portable and convenient way to quickly replenish fluids and electrolytes to help prevent dehydration symptoms. They are specifically formulated to help prevent dehydration caused by common travel issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea, heat exhaustion, and strenuous exercise.

Unlike household beverages such as soda or juice, Pedialyte uses an optimal balance of sugar and electrolytes to replenish vital minerals and fluids more effectively.

• The powder format is particularly useful for on-the-go rehydration, as it can simply be added to water.
• Mix one packet with 8 fl oz (1 cup) of water only, then stir or shake until dissolved. For adults and children 1 year and older, begin with small, frequent sips every 15 minutes, increasing the serving size as tolerated. To maintain hydration, 4 to 8 servings (32 to 64 fl oz) may be needed daily.
• Consult a doctor if vomiting, fever, or diarrhea continues beyond 24 hours. The product should be used under medical supervision.

Best for Comprehensive Upset Stomach and Travelers' Diarrhea Relief

Pepto Bismol Original Liquid - Cherry Flavor

Active Ingredient: Bismuth subsalicylate 525 mg

Manufacturer: Procter & Gamble

Pepto Bismol is a multiuse medicine that provides fast relief for 5 major symptoms: nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea. It is specifically indicated for the relief of travelers' diarrhea and upset stomach due to overindulgence in food and drink, as well as gas, belching, and fullness.

The formula works through a unique coating action that calms and soothes the stomach lining, providing relief you can feel.

• The cherry flavor provides the same effective relief as the original formula but with a more pleasant taste for those who find the original difficult to swallow.
• Take the liquid at the first sign of discomfort as directed. It is indicated for adults and children aged 12 years and older.
• Pepto Bismol is not intended for children under 12 years of age; for younger children, specific "Pepto Kids" products should be used. Always keep the medication out of the reach of children.