Class
- Anticholinergic/Antispasmodic Agent
Indications
- Motion sickness prevention and treatment
- Gastrointestinal spasms and cramping
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptom relief
- Preoperative medication to reduce saliva production
- Relief from bladder spasms
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in smooth muscle, salivary glands, and the CNS
- Reduces spasms in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts
- Inhibits secretion production in glands like salivary glands
Dosage and Administration
- Motion Sickness
- Adults: 300–600 mcg every 6–8 hours as needed (oral or sublingual)
- Transdermal patch: Apply 1 patch behind the ear every 72 hours
- Gastrointestinal Spasms
- Adults: 10–20 mg three to four times daily (oral)
- Preoperative Use
- Dose varies; typically administered intravenously by healthcare professionals
- Should be taken 30–60 minutes before travel for motion sickness prevention
Forms Available
- Tablets: 10 mg (oral)
- Sublingual tablets: 300 mcg
- Transdermal patches: 1.5 mg for motion sickness prevention
- Injectable solution (for professional use)
Brand Names and Manufacturers
- Buscopan (Boehringer Ingelheim)
- Kwells (Reckitt Benckiser)
- Scopoderm (Novartis)
- Hyoscine Injection (various manufacturers)
Cost
- Tablets: $5–$15 per pack (generic options available)
- Transdermal patches: $15–$40 per pack of 2-4 patches
Contraindications
- Glaucoma (especially narrow-angle glaucoma)
- Myasthenia gravis
- Megacolon or intestinal blockage
- Severe urinary retention
- Allergy to hyoscine or any component of the formulation
Precautions
- Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects
- May cause drowsiness or blurred vision; avoid driving or operating machinery
- Avoid alcohol, which may enhance sedative effects
- Use cautiously in patients with cardiovascular conditions
Side Effects
- Common: Dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, constipation, increased heart rate
- Less common: Difficulty urinating, confusion (especially in elderly), rash
- Rare but serious: Severe allergic reactions, heat intolerance (due to reduced sweating)
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol: Increases drowsiness and sedation
- Antihistamines and antidepressants: Enhanced anticholinergic effects
- Opioids: Increased risk of constipation and CNS depression
- Potassium supplements: Risk of gastrointestinal irritation or injury
- Medications for glaucoma: Antagonistic effects
Monitoring Parameters
- Symptom relief (spasms, motion sickness, drooling)
- Monitor for anticholinergic side effects (dry mouth, confusion, vision changes)
- Check for signs of heat intolerance in hot climates
Patient Counseling Points
- For motion sickness, take the dose or apply the patch 30–60 minutes before travel
- Do not touch your eyes after handling transdermal patches; wash hands thoroughly
- Avoid activities requiring alertness until the drug’s effects are known
- Stay hydrated and use sugar-free gum or lozenges to manage dry mouth
- Report symptoms such as confusion, severe drowsiness, or difficulty urinating
FAQs About Hyoscine
Q1: Can hyoscine be used for children?
- Yes, with age-appropriate doses; consult a pediatrician for guidance
Q2: How long does hyoscine take to work? - Tablets: 20–30 minutes
- Transdermal patch: Begins working within 6 hours, lasts up to 72 hours
Q3: Can I use hyoscine during pregnancy? - Use only if clearly needed; consult a healthcare provider
Q4: Does hyoscine cause drowsiness? - Yes, it may cause drowsiness; avoid driving or heavy machinery after use
Q5: Can I drink alcohol while taking hyoscine? - Alcohol can increase drowsiness and other side effects; best to avoid it
Q6: What should I do if I miss a dose? - Take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next scheduled dose; do not double doses
Q7: Are there alternatives to hyoscine for motion sickness? - Yes, alternatives include meclizine, dimenhydrinate, or ginger supplements
