Scopolamine (Transderm-Scop) for vertigo

Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
scopolamine	Transderm-Scop

Scopolamine (Transderm-Scop) is a patch placed on the skin behind the ear. The medication is absorbed from the patch through the skin.

How It Works

The action of scopolamine is not completely understood. It is believed that scopolamine reduces the activity of the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear and the brain. This reduces the urge to vomit.

Why It Is Used

Scopolamine is prescribed to prevent vomiting caused by vertigo.

How Well It Works

Scopolamine can help prevent vomiting caused by vertigo in most people.

Side Effects

The most common side effect of scopolamine is a dry mouth.

Other side effects include drowsiness and blurred vision.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Some people who use scopolamine for 3 or more days in a row may experience dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or headache when they stop using the medication.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW	Last Updated: January 29, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Barrie J. Hurwitz, MD - Neurology
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