What is Scopolamine?
Scopolamine is a medication used primarily to prevent motion sickness and nausea and vomiting related to surgery or anesthesia. It is also employed to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), other gastrointestinal issues, muscle spasms, and symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Scopolamine works by reducing secretions in certain organs, such as the stomach and intestines, and by blocking some of the brain impulses that trigger nausea and vomiting.
Uses of Scopolamine
Scopolamine is used for:
- Preventing motion sickness and the associated nausea and vomiting.
- Treating nausea and vomiting after anesthesia and surgery.
- Managing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Providing symptomatic relief in Parkinson's disease.
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Common side effects include:
- Agitation
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations
- Painful urination
- Palpitations
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Vomiting
Serious side effects may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Irregular heartbeat
If you experience severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. The benefits of using this medication generally outweigh the risk of side effects for most people.
Precautions
Before using Scopolamine, discuss with your doctor if you have:
- Allergies to scopolamine or any other medications.
- Breathing problems
- Glaucoma
- Heart disease or high blood pressure
- Seizures
- Esophageal problems
- Overactive thyroid
- Difficulty urinating
- Kidney or liver disease
- Myasthenia gravis
How to Take Scopolamine
- Patch Application: Peel off the clear backing and apply the patch behind the ear on clean, dry, hairless skin. Press firmly for at least 30 seconds, especially around the edges.
- Motion Sickness Prevention: Apply the patch at least 4 hours before the activity causing motion sickness. Replace every 3 days as needed.
- Post-Surgery Nausea and Vomiting: Apply the patch 1 hour before surgery. For cesarean sections, this helps limit the baby’s exposure. Remove and discard the patch 24 hours after surgery.
- Patch Replacement: If the patch comes off, replace it with a new one on the other ear. Use only one patch at a time.
Missed Dose
Missing a dose of Scopolamine is generally not harmful. However, follow your prescribed dosing schedule as closely as possible.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Overdosing can cause serious health effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: Use Scopolamine with caution during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your doctor.
- Breastfeeding: Scopolamine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before using if you are breastfeeding.
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- Store at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
- Keep away from direct contact with heat, air, and light.
- Store in a safe place out of children's reach.
Scopolamine vs Ondansetron
| Scopolamine | Ondansetron |
|---|---|
| Prevents motion sickness and post-surgery nausea and vomiting. | Prevents nausea and vomiting from medical treatments. |
| Common forms: patch. | Common forms: tablet, solution, intravenous. |
| Common side effects: agitation, dizziness, hallucinations, painful urination, palpitations, skin rash, itching, vomiting. | Common side effects: headache, constipation, weakness, tiredness, chills, drowsiness. |
