Scopolamine: Dosage, Uses and side Effects
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vikram Kishore Reddy P, Neurology
Scopolamine is a medicine commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness or surgery. Scopolamine, what is it used for, includes managing motion sickness, post-operative nausea, and in some cases, muscle spasms or stomach disorders. Scopolamine effects vary based on dosage and individual response.
Scopolamine Tablet Available in various forms, including tablets, patches, and injections, scopolamine is effective for both short-term and planned travel-related nausea. It can also be used in some cases to manage muscle spasms or certain stomach and intestinal issues, under a doctor's guidance.
Scopolamine vs Ondansetron. 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.
Scopolamine is used for:
Scopolamine works by blocking a natural substance in the body called acetylcholine. This chemical plays a role in the transmission of nerve signals in the brain and inner ear that can trigger motion sickness, nausea, and muscle spasms. By stopping acetylcholine's effect, scopolamine helps calm the nervous system and reduces symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
The typical dosage varies depending on the form (patch, tablet, or injection) and the condition being treated. A standard method involves placing a skin patch behind the ear every 72 hours to prevent motion sickness or nausea. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the correct dosage and form.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose.
An overdose of scopolamine can cause severe symptoms like confusion, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, hallucinations, dry mouth, or even seizures. Seek immediate medical help if an overdose is suspected.
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Get Second OpinionCommon scopolamine effects include dry mouth and blurred vision. Serious reactions may include irregular heartbeat or hallucinations.
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.
Before using Scopolamine, discuss with your doctor if you have:
Scopolamine may interact with medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sleeping pills, allergy medications, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and alcohol. Combining it with other anticholinergic drugs may increase the risk of side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, or constipation.
Herbal products like belladonna, henbane, or those affecting the nervous system may also enhance scopolamine's effects and should be avoided unless approved by your doctor.
Store scopolamine at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep it in a dry place, and avoid storing it in the bathroom. Make sure it is kept out of reach of children and pets.
Maintain a temperature of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), which is the standard room temperature.
Improper storage can reduce the effectiveness of the medication or cause it to spoil. For example, exposure to heat or moisture may degrade the active ingredients, making the medicine less reliable or potentially unsafe.
Note:In some regions, scopolamine is also known as scopolamina.
| Scopolamine | Ondansetron |
|---|---|
| Prevents motion sickness, post-operative nausea, and vomiting | Prevents nausea and vomiting caused by medical treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, surgery) |
| Transdermal patch | Tablet, oral solution, intravenous injection |
| Agitation, dizziness, hallucinations, painful urination, palpitations, skin rash, itching, vomiting | Headache, constipation, weakness, tiredness, chills, drowsiness |

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040-68334455Scopolamine is used to prevent motion sickness and to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by medications used during surgery. It belongs to a class of drugs called antimuscarinics.
Scopolamine affects acetylcholine in the brain, which can influence memory and cognitive functions. It is not used for mind control; its effects are primarily related to reducing nausea and motion sickness.
Scopolamine can reduce secretions such as saliva and other fluids. It is commonly administered via a small patch behind the ear for convenience.
Scopolamine inhibits the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain, leading to temporary cognitive effects similar to those seen in Alzheimer's disease.
Common side effects of Scopolamine include agitation, dizziness, hallucinations, pain while urinating, palpitations, and skin rash.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.