Hyoscine Hydrobromide

What is hyoscine hydrobromide?

Hyoscine hydrobromide is a medicine used primarily to prevent and treat travel sickness (motion sickness) and to reduce excess saliva or respiratory secretions, particularly in palliative care. It may also be used as a premedication before anaesthesia. It belongs to a group of medicines called  antimuscarinics[1]. 

Hyoscine hydrobromide comes as patches that you can stick to your skin, and tablets that you can chew, suck, or swallow. You can buy the tablets and patches over the counter. It can also be given by injection, but this is usually only in hospital or in palliative care[1].  

What is hyoscine hydrobromide used for?

This medicine is commonly prescribed for two main purposes[1]: 

• Travel sickness – to prevent nausea and vomiting during travel 

• Palliative care – to reduce saliva, respiratory secretions and bowel colic in patients near the end of life 

How does hyoscine hydrobromide work?

Hyoscine hydrobromide is thought to work by affecting your inner ear and your brain which helps to control vomiting. This action helps in several ways[1]: 

• Reduces saliva and mucus production 

• Blocks signals from the inner ear to the brain that cause nausea 

• Relaxes stomach muscles to help prevent vomiting 

Who can take hyoscine hydrobromide?

Hyoscine hydrobromide is suitable for many people, but not everyone. You can take it if[1]: 

• You are using tablets and are aged 4 years or older 

• You are using patches and are aged 10 years or older 

Speak to your doctor first if you[1]: 

• Have ever had an allergic reaction to hyoscine hydrobromide or any of the other ingredients listed as part of your medicine  

• Have an eye problem called primary angle closure glaucoma 

• Have thyroid, kidney or liver problems 

• Have digestive problems, such as acid reflux or severe constipation 

• Have myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness 

• Have heart problems, including a very fast heart rate 

• Have a bowel or stomach blockage 

• Have difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate 

• Have epilepsy (seizures) 

• Have ulcerative colitis 

• Have a high temperature 

• Are pregnant or trying to conceive, unless advised by your doctor or pharmacist 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of hyoscine hydrobromide?

The dosage depends on age and the form used[1]: 

Tablets:  

• Child 4–9 years - 75 to 150 micrograms (including Kwells Kids) 

• Child 10–17 years – 150 to 300 micrograms (including Kwells) 

• Adult – 150 to 300 micrograms (including Kwells) 

Take 20-30 minutes before travel; repeat every 6 hours if needed 

Patches: 

• 1 patch (1.5mg) (e.g. scopoderm) 

• Apply behind the ear 5-6 hours before travel 

• Each patch lasts up to 72 hours; remove old patch and site replacement patch behind the other ear if required 

How do you take hyoscine hydrobromide?

Different forms are taken in slightly different ways[1]: 

• Tablets: Suck, chew, or swallow with water. Can be taken with or without food. 

• Patches: Apply to clean, dry skin behind the ear. Replace every 72 hours if needed behind other ear

Can you stop taking hyoscine hydrobromide?

Yes. If you’re using it for travel sickness, you can stop after your journey. No withdrawal effects are expected[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much hyoscine hydrobromide?

Taking too much may cause symptoms such as[1]: 

• Dry mouth or blurred vision (mild overdose) 

• Fast heartbeat, seizures, or unconsciousness (severe overdose) 

Call NHS 111 or 999 if you suspect an overdose. Bring the medicine packaging with you to the hospital. 

What do you do if you forget to take hyoscine hydrobromide?

If you're using it for travel sickness, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose[1]. 

How do you store hyoscine hydrobromide?

Store it in a cool, dry place in the original container. Ensure it is kept out of the reach of children[1]. 

What medicines can’t you take with hyoscine hydrobromide

Hyoscine hydrobromide may interact with several medicines. You should avoid combining it with[1]: 

• Domperidone or metoclopramide – these may reduce its effectiveness 

It may increase side effects if taken with[1]: 

• Antihistamines 

• Disopyramide, heart medicines 

• Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline 

• Amantadine which can be used for Parkinson’s 

• Antipsychotics such as chlorpromazine or clozapine 

• Some inhaled asthma medicines such as tiotropium or ipratropium 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of hyoscine hydrobromide?

Common side effects include[1]: 

• Dry mouth 

• Blurred vision 

• Drowsiness 

• Constipation 

Less common side effects include[1]: 

• Confusion or dizziness 

• Difficulty urinating 

• Skin irritation from patches 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about hyoscine hydrobromide

Is it safe for children? 
Yes. Tablets are suitable for children aged 4 and older; patches from age 10 and above[1]. 

Can I drive after taking it? 
This medicine may make you sleepy. If this happens, do not drive, or use tools or machines [1]. 

Can I drink alcohol with it? 
It’s best to avoid alcohol – it can increase drowsiness[1]. 

Can I take it while pregnant? 
Not recommended unless advised by your doctor or pharmacist[1]. 

How quickly does it work? 
Tablets work in 20–30 minutes; patches may take up to 6 hours to take effect[1]. 

Can I use it long-term? 
Generally safe for short-term use. Long-term use should be supervised by a doctor or pharmacist[1]. 

Is it the same as Buscopan? 
No. Buscopan is hyoscine butylbromide and is used for abdominal cramps[1]. 

Can I use more than one patch? 
No. Only one patch should be used at a time[1]. 

What if I have side effects? 
Stop using it and speak to a pharmacist or doctor[1]. 

Can I use it with herbal supplements? 
Caution is advised. Some supplements may increase side effects[1]. 

For the official NHS guide for hyoscine hydrobromide, visit their website.