What Is Scopolamine? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

If you've ever gone on a cruise, been prescribed this medication before surgery, or researched motion sickness solutions, you may have come across scopolamine. It's a small, circle-shaped patch that you stick behind your ear — and it can make the difference between a miserable seasick journey and an enjoyable one. Here's everything you need to know about what scopolamine is, how it works, how to use it, and whether it's right for you.

What Is Scopolamine?

Scopolamine (pronounced sko-POL-a-meen) is a prescription medication used to prevent nausea and vomiting. It belongs to a class of drugs called anticholinergics — specifically, antimuscarinic agents. It's also classified as a belladonna alkaloid, meaning it's derived from a group of plants in the nightshade family that have been used medicinally for centuries.

In the United States, the most common form of scopolamine is a circular transdermal patch sold under the brand name Transderm Scop (manufactured by Baxter) and in generic versions from manufacturers including Rhodes, Viatris (Mylan), and Zydus. Other brand names include Scopace and Maldemar.

What Is Scopolamine Used For?

Scopolamine has two FDA-approved uses for the transdermal patch:

Prevention of motion sickness — for adults who experience nausea and vomiting during car travel, boat travel, cruises, air travel, or any other motion-related activity. The patch provides up to 72 hours of continuous protection.

Prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) — applied the night before surgery and removed 24 hours after the procedure. It's particularly useful when patients are at high risk for PONV (e.g., women, nonsmokers, patients with a history of motion sickness or PONV, and those receiving opioid pain medications).

What Does the Scopolamine Patch Look Like?

The scopolamine transdermal patch is a small (2.5 cm diameter), circular, flat, tan-colored patch. It's about the size of a dime. The patch has four layers: a protective outer backing, a drug reservoir containing scopolamine mixed in mineral oil and polyisobutylene, a microporous membrane that controls drug release rate, and a contact adhesive layer that sticks to the skin. A protective release liner is removed before application.

How Do You Use a Scopolamine Patch?

Wash and dry the area of hairless skin behind one ear.

Peel off the protective liner on the back of the patch.

Apply the adhesive side firmly behind the ear. Press firmly to ensure good contact.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after applying. Scopolamine on your fingers can cause pupil dilation if you touch your eyes.

When to apply the patch:

Motion sickness: At least 4 hours before exposure to motion. Many clinicians recommend applying 12 hours in advance for maximum effect. The patch takes about 4 hours to reach effective blood levels.

Postoperative nausea: The night before surgery; remove 24 hours after the procedure.

Cesarean section: Apply 1 hour before surgery to limit fetal exposure; remove 24 hours after.

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How Long Does One Patch Last?

Each scopolamine patch provides up to 72 hours (3 days) of continuous drug delivery. If you need protection for longer than 3 days, remove the used patch and apply a fresh one behind the other ear. The patch delivers an initial priming dose of 140 micrograms of scopolamine followed by a steady release of approximately 1 mg over 72 hours.

Is Scopolamine a Controlled Substance?

No. The FDA label for Transderm Scop explicitly states that scopolamine is not a controlled substance. This means you don't need to worry about the additional prescribing restrictions that apply to medications like opioids or stimulants. You can fill it at a standard retail pharmacy, use mail-order, or have it prescribed via telehealth.

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Who Should Not Use Scopolamine?

People with angle-closure glaucoma

People allergic to scopolamine or belladonna alkaloids

Pregnant women with severe preeclampsia

Use with caution in children, adults over 60, and those with prostate enlargement, urinary issues, liver/kidney disease, or psychiatric history

Finding Scopolamine in Stock in 2026

Scopolamine patches are in active shortage as of 2026, with multiple manufacturers experiencing supply disruptions. If your pharmacy doesn't have it, try medfinder.com — a service that calls pharmacies near you to check which ones have it in stock, then texts you the results.

Want to understand the science behind how scopolamine prevents nausea? Read: How Does Scopolamine Work? Mechanism of Action Explained