Scopolamine skin patch for nausea

About scopolamine

Scopolamine (also known as hyoscine) is available for use in adults, as a skin patch called Transderm Scop®. You stick the patch on to the skin behind your ear four hours prior to your journey, and then remove it at the end of the journey. The patch releases scopolamine through your skin and into your bloodstream.

Scopolamine skin patch is also used to prevent nausea and vomiting from occurring after surgery and when anesthetics or opiate painkillers (eg, morphine) have been used. The patch should be applied 24 hours prior to surgery and removed 24 hours after surgery.

One of the other effects of scopolamine is that it causes a dry mouth. It is sometimes prescribed by physicians for this reason, rather than to prevent nausea.

Before using scopolamine patches

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking scopolamine it is important that your physician knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you are unwell and have a high temperature.

• If you have digestive system problems such as reflux disease, diarrhea, or ulcerative colitis.

• If you have an eye condition called glaucoma.

• If you have high blood pressure, a fast heart rate, or any other heart problems.

• If you have problems with your liver, kidneys or prostate gland.

• If you have epilepsy or have had fits (seizures) in the past.

• If you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis.

• If you have Down syndrome.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to use scopolamine patches

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about scopolamine, including how to apply the patch, and a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from using it.

• Use scopolamine patches exactly as your physician tells you to.

• If you are using Transderm Scop® for motion sickness, apply one patch to the skin just behind your ear four hours prior to the start of your journey and remember to remove it after your arrival. The effect of the patch can last up to 72 hours, so it is suitable for people taking long journeys.

• If you have been prescribed the patch to prevent nausea and vomiting following surgery, apply the patch 24 hours prior to your surgery. The patch should be removed 24 hours after your surgery has finished. If they do not already know, tell the person carrying out your surgery that you are wearing the Transderm Scop® patch.

• Remember to wash your hands after handling the patches, and also it is important to wash behind your ear after you have removed the patch. This is to make sure you remove any remaining traces of scopolamine from your skin.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Scopolamine can make you sleepy, and you may still feel sleepy the following day. If this happens, do not drive and do not use tools or machines. Also, avoid drinking alcohol whilst wearing the patch, as this will increase the feelings of sleepiness.

• When you buy any medicines, you should always check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take alongside your other medicines.

• Other things which can help to prevent motion sickness are:

  • Looking out of a window or sitting with your head tilted slightly backwards.

  • Taking regular breaks in your journey to have some fresh air and drink some cold water.

  • Breathing deeply and slowly while you listen to music.

Can using scopolamine patches cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with scopolamine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Speak with your physician or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your physician or pharmacist.

How to store scopolamine patches

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines