← Search & browse all drugs
NERVOUS SYSTEM › PSYCHOLEPTICS › HYPNOTICS AND SEDATIVES › Other hypnotics and sedatives
scopolamine
N05CM05
Forms & Strengths
- Transdermal patch: 1.5 mg delivering approximately 1 mg over 72 hours
- Injection: 0.4 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL
- Ophthalmic solution: 0.25%
Adult Dosing
- Motion sickness: Apply one transdermal patch (1.5 mg) behind the ear at least 4 hours before expected travel; replace every 3 days as needed
- Nausea and vomiting (postoperative): Apply one transdermal patch the evening before surgery or 2 hours prior to surgery
- Preoperative sedation/antisialagogue: 0.4 to 0.6 mg IM, IV, or SC single dose
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients for motion sickness or postoperative nausea are not established; transdermal patch is not recommended in children
- Preoperative sedation (children > 6 months): 0.006 mg/kg (max 0.3 mg) IM or SC
Indications
- Prevention of nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness
- Prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV)
- Preanesthetic sedation and reduction of salivary and tracheobronchial secretions
- Mydriasis and cycloplegia in ophthalmology (off-label or specific ophthalmic formulations)
Mechanism of Action
- Competitive antagonist at muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (anticholinergic)
- Acts in the central nervous system to block cholinergic transmission in the vestibular nuclei and reticular formation to prevent motion sickness and emesis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to scopolamine or belladonna alkaloids
- Angle-closure glaucoma
- Active gastrointestinal obstruction or paralytic ileus
- Urinary retention or bladder neck obstruction
Adverse Reactions
- Dry mouth and throat
- Blurred vision andmydriasis
- Drowsiness, dizziness, and sedation
- Constipation and urinary retention
- Confusion, memory impairment, and hallucinations (especially in elderly patients)
Drug Interactions
- Additive anticholinergic effects with antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, and antipsychotics
- May decrease gastrointestinal absorption of concurrently administered oral medications due to decreased motility
- Central nervous system depression enhanced by alcohol, sedatives, and opioids
- Potentiation of tachycardia when co-administered with sympathomimetic agents
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use