Efficacy of diphenhydramine in the prevention of vertigo and nausea at 7 T MRI.

PURPOSE In this study the potential of diphenhydramine in reducing respectively preventing vertigo and nausea induced by the ultra-high static magnetic field at 7 T was evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a prospective, double blinded, placebo controlled, cross-over randomized study the sensations of 34 volunteers before, during and after exposure to the static magnetic field with and without drug respectively placebo administration were quantified. Fast table motion was applied to increase the incidence of otherwise sparse reports of field related sensations. RESULTS The strength of vertigo can be reduced by the application of diphenhydramine. CONCLUSION Diphenhydramine, even at a low dose, reduces the strength of vertigo at ultra-high static magnetic fields, may be used preventively, and could pave the way to even higher field strength.