Scopolamine, also known as scopolamine butylbromide, is an antispasmodic medication designed to relieve muscle spasms. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, uterus, and urinary system.
Doctors typically prescribe this medication to treat abdominal pain associated with conditions like menstrual cramps or kidney stones. It is also effective at easing the discomfort caused by gallbladder issues or intestinal cramping.
In the United States, scopolamine is available in various forms, including oral tablets and injectable solutions. While often used for motion sickness in patch form, its antispasmodic version is a staple for gastrointestinal relief.
What it is used for
Scopolamine is primarily indicated for the following conditions:
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General abdominal pain
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Menstrual cramps
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Abdominal discomfort and bloating
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Renal (kidney) or biliary (gallbladder) colic
Additionally, healthcare providers may use scopolamine during medical procedures, such as gastrointestinal endoscopies or certain X-rays, to keep the digestive tract still. The effects on the digestive system typically begin within 20 to 80 minutes after oral administration.
How to use
The administration of scopolamine depends on the specific form of the medication prescribed:
1. Scopolamine 10 mg tablets
These oral tablets contain 10 mg of scopolamine butylbromide. They should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be crushed or chewed.
For adults and children over 6 years of age, the standard dosage is 1 to 2 tablets taken 3 to 5 times per day, as directed by a physician.
2. Scopolamine oral drops (10 mg/mL)
Each milliliter of these drops contains 10 mg of the active ingredient. The drops can be taken directly or dissolved in a small amount of water.
Dosage guidelines are generally based on age:
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Adults and children over 6: 20 to 40 drops (10 to 20 mg), 3 to 5 times daily.
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Children ages 1 to 6: 10 to 20 drops (5 to 10 mg), 3 times daily. A pediatrician may calculate a specific dose based on weight (typically 0.3 to 0.5 mg/kg).
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Infants 3 to 11 months: 0.7 mg per kg of body weight, 3 times daily.
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Infants up to 3 months: 1.5 mg per kg of body weight, 3 times daily.
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Nursing infants: 10 drops (5 mg), 3 times daily.
3. Injectable scopolamine (20 mg/mL)
This version is administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. It can be given intravenously (IV), intramuscularly (IM), or subcutaneously (under the skin).
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Adults and adolescents over 12: 1 to 2 ampoules per day, with a maximum limit of 5 ampoules daily.
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Children under 12: In severe cases, 0.3 to 0.6 mg per kg of body weight, not to exceed 1.5 mg/kg per day.
4. Scopolamine and acetaminophen tablets
This combination tablet contains 10 mg of scopolamine butylbromide and 325 mg of acetaminophen. It is used for enhanced pain relief.
Adults may take 1 to 2 tablets 3 to 4 times per day. This specific combination is not intended for use in children.
5. Scopolamine and acetaminophen drops
This liquid formulation provides both antispasmodic and analgesic effects. It can be diluted in water for easier consumption.
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Adults and teens over 12: 20 to 40 drops, 3 to 4 times daily.
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Children over 6: 10 to 20 drops, 3 to 4 times daily (standardized at roughly 0.2 mg of scopolamine per kg).
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Children 1 to 6: 5 to 10 drops, 3 to 4 times daily.
This product should not be administered to infants under 12 months of age.
6. Injectable scopolamine and acetaminophen
This injectable form is used for rapid pain management in hospital settings. It is administered slowly into a vein or via a deep muscle injection.
The standard adult dose is 1 ampoule every 6 to 8 hours, not exceeding 3 doses per day. This formulation is not indicated for pediatric use.
Possible side effects
Common side effects associated with scopolamine include dizziness, dry mouth, and a slight drop in blood pressure. Some patients may also experience skin rashes, hives, heart palpitations, or difficulty urinating.
Formulations containing acetaminophen may cause severe allergic reactions in rare cases. You should seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or tongue, severe skin peeling, or intense itching.
Who should not use this medication
Scopolamine products should be avoided by individuals with myasthenia gravis, or those with a known blockage or narrowing of the intestines. It is also contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women unless specifically directed by a doctor.
Due to the risk of masking underlying conditions, these medications should not be given to children suffering from persistent or acute diarrhea.
Patients with a history of liver disease should use acetaminophen-containing products with caution. Additionally, individuals who have experienced asthma or allergic reactions to NSAIDs (like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen) should consult a doctor before use, as they may be at higher risk for a reaction.