Scopolamine Patches (Motion Sickness)

Overview

Scopolamine is an anticholinergic agent that works by blocking signals from the vestibular system (inner ear) to the brain's vomiting center. Unlike oral medications that must be taken repeatedly, the transdermal patch delivers a continuous, controlled dose through the skin over 72 hours from a single application.

Applied behind the ear at least 4 hours before travel, each patch provides up to 72 hours of continuous motion sickness prevention. For voyages longer than 3 days, a new patch can be applied behind the opposite ear. The CDC considers Scopolamine highly effective for motion sickness prevention, particularly for extended sea travel.

The FDA-approved labeling notes common side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, and blurred vision. A critical precaution: touching the patch and then touching the eyes before washing hands can cause temporary pupil dilation and blurred vision. Scopolamine is contraindicated in individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma or urinary retention.

Wandr Health vs. a traditional travel clinic

Other travel medications

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