Common side effects of the scopolamine patch include a dry mouth, sweating, drowsiness, and more. In rare cases, serious side effects can occur. These include confusion, heart palpitations, seizures, and more.

Scopolamine patches help prevent nausea and vomiting. Doctors may prescribe them if you experience nausea due to medications or motion sickness.

Like most medications, scopolamine patches can cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and temporary. However, in rare cases, serious side effects can occur that need urgent medical attention.

Read on to learn more about common and serious side effects of the scopolamine patch, who should avoid scopolamine patches, and more.

Scopolamine patches can cause several side effects. Most side effects are mild and will resolve on their own.

Common side effects of the scopolamine patch include:

After you apply a scopolamine patch, it will take your skin at least 4 hours to absorb the medication. This typically means it may take at least 4 hours or longer to notice any side effects.

Some side effects may linger even after you remove the patch, as the medication will still be in your bloodstream.

In rare instances, scopolamine patches may cause severe side effects. Some of these side effects require urgent medical attention.

If you notice any of these side effects, it’s important to remove the patch immediately and get medical attention right away.

Serious side effects of the scopolamine patch include:

These side effects are rare. However, because they are serious, it’s important to be aware of them and to tell your doctor right away if you experience any of them.

Scopolamine patches aren’t recommended for everyone. You may want to avoid using a scopolamine patch if you:

The scopolamine patch is not a good choice for some people with heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. Let your doctor know if you have any of these conditions.

It’s also important that your doctor knows about any medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you take, as these medications could interact with the scopolamine patch and cause side effects.

The best way to minimize possible side effects of the scopolamine patch is to use it exactly as instructed. This can also help you get the best results from the patch.

How to apply a scopolamine patch properly

  1. Carefully wash and dry the area behind your ear.
  2. Ensure the area behind your ear has no cuts, irritation, bumps, or tenderness.
  3. Carefully remove the patch from its packaging, making sure not to touch the adhesive side with your fingers.
  4. Place the patch on your skin with the adhesive side pressed down.
  5. Wash your hands with soap and water.

Once you have the patch in place, be sure to:

  • avoid getting water on the patch
  • apply a new patch if your patch falls off
  • avoid cutting or trimming your patch if it becomes loose
  • wear your patch for exactly as long as prescribed

It’s important to change your scopolamine patch according to the schedule your doctor prescribes. Changing your patch too early could put too much medication into your bloodstream, increasing the risk of side effects.

However, as long as you wear one patch at a time there shouldn’t be an increased risk of side effects.

Scopolamine patches can help prevent nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness and some medications.

These patches, which you wear behind the ear, may cause some side effects. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly. Common side effects include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, and dilated pupils.

Rarely, serious side effects may occur, such as blurry vision, difficulty passing urine, and hallucinations. If you experience serious side effects, remove your patch and get medical attention right away.

Before getting a prescription for a scopolamine patch, tell your doctor about your medical history and any medications and supplements you’re taking. Once you start using the patches, follow all instructions carefully to lower the risk of adverse side effects.