Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Scopolamine is employed to thwart nausea and vomiting brought about by motion sickness or medications administered during surgical procedures. It belongs to a category of drugs known as antimuscarinics, functioning by inhibiting the influence of a specific natural substance on the central nervous system.
Uses and Dosage
Peel off the transparent backing from the patch and affix it to a clean, dry, hairless section of skin behind the ear. Press down firmly for a minimum of 30 seconds to ensure secure adhesion, paying special attention to the edges. The patch will gradually release the medication into your system over a 3-day period. Do not use the patch if it is damaged, cut, or broken.
If you are using the patch to prevent motion sickness-induced nausea and vomiting, adhere to your doctor’s instructions, typically applying the patch at least 4 hours prior to engaging in the activity that triggers motion sickness. Replace the patch every 3 days until it is no longer required.
For those using the patch to prevent nausea and vomiting after surgery, follow your doctor’s guidance, usually applying the patch on the evening before the surgical procedure. In the case of cesarean section surgery, the patch is generally applied 1 hour before the procedure to minimize the baby’s exposure to the medication. Discard the patch in accordance with your doctor’s instructions, typically 24 hours after surgery.
If the patch becomes dislodged or requires replacement, discard the old patch and apply a new one behind the opposite ear, on a clean, dry, hairless area. Utilize only one patch at a time. When disposing of the used patch, fold it in half with the sticky side facing each other and dispose of it in the trash, away from children and pets.
This medication may induce temporary blurred vision and dilated pupils if it comes into contact with the eyes. After handling the patch, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Additionally, cleanse the area behind the ear where the patch was removed.
Upon discontinuing this medication, you may experience dizziness, balance issues, nausea, vomiting, headaches, muscle weakness, or a slower heart rate. These effects usually manifest 24 hours or more after ceasing the medication and are a result of your body adjusting to its absence. Promptly report any such reactions to your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- disorientation
- dry mouth
- drowsiness
- dilated pupils
- dizziness
- sweating
- sore throat
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- rash
- redness
- eye pain, redness, or discomfort; blurred vision; seeing halos or colored images
- agitation
- seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist (hallucinating)
- confusion
- believing things that are not true
- not trusting others or feeling that others want to hurt you
- difficulty speaking
- seizure
- painful or difficulty urinating
- stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
Caution
Prior to using scopolamine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, including allergies to scopolamine itself, other belladonna alkaloids like atropine, or any other substances. This product might contain inactive ingredients capable of triggering allergic reactions or other complications.
Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of breathing issues such as asthma or emphysema, a personal or family history of angle-closure glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, gastrointestinal problems like ulcers, blockages, or GERD, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), difficulty urinating, mental or mood disorders like psychosis or anxiety, kidney disease, liver disease, myasthenia gravis, or uncontrolled pain.
This medication may induce dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Refrain from activities that require alertness or clear vision, such as driving, operating machinery, engaging in underwater activities, or any task that necessitates vigilance, until you can do so safely.
If you are scheduled for an MRI test, inform the testing staff that you are using this patch. Some patches may contain metals that can cause severe burns during an MRI. Seek advice from your doctor regarding whether you should remove your patch before the test, apply a new patch afterward, and the correct procedure for doing so.
This medication may reduce your ability to sweat, making you more susceptible to heat stroke. Avoid activities that may cause overheating, such as strenuous work or exercise in hot weather, or using hot tubs. In hot weather, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and wear lightweight clothing. If you become overheated, promptly seek a cooler place to rest. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a persistent fever, changes in mental state or mood, headache, or dizziness.
Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness and drowsiness.
During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary, and discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Transderm Scop is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Transderm Scop patch:
- 1.5mg
FAQ
How long does it take Transderm Scop to work?
It usually takes about 4 hours before you start to notice any benefits from Transderm Scop. It can take about 24 hours before you experience full effects of this medication.
Can I use Transderm Scop to treat nausea or vomiting?
No. Transderm Scop is only for preventing nausea and vomiting because it takes 4 hours for the medication to start working, which isn’t ideal for treating active nausea or vomiting.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/scopolamine/what-is#faqs
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682509.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/scopolamine-transdermal-route/side-effects/drg-20072848?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14036/transderm-scop-transdermal/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/transderm-scop.html
