What it does
Hyosine is a medicine that helps relieve muscle spasms and motion sickness.
Commonly used for: motion sickness, muscle spasms, irritable bowel syndrome
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 19:27:01 · updated 2026-08-03 02:13:28
About this medicine
Hyosine is a medicine that helps relieve muscle spasms and motion sickness.
What it treats
- motion sickness
- muscle spasms
- irritable bowel syndrome
How it works
Hyosine works by relaxing the muscles in the gut and blocking signals to the brain that cause nausea.
Who it's for
Hyosine is suitable for adults and children over a certain age, depending on the specific product.
Cautions
- • Do not use if you have glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye).
- • Use with caution if you have a history of heart problems.
- • Not recommended for people with certain bowel obstructions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: hyosine
Hyoscine, also known as scopolamine, is an anticholinergic agent that is primarily used to treat motion sickness, postoperative nausea and vomiting, and as a preoperative sedative. It works by inhibiting the action of acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors in the brain and the gastrointestinal tract.
Indications
- Motion sickness
- Post-operative nausea and vomiting
- Preoperative sedation
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Peptic ulcer disease
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing information in paediatric populations.
Adults: Refer to specific clinical guidelines for dosing information, as doses can vary based on indication and formulation.
Mechanism of action
Hyoscine exerts its effects by blocking muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, which inhibits parasympathetic nerve impulses. This leads to a decrease in the activity of the vestibular system and the vomiting center of the brain, thereby reducing nausea and motion sickness. Additionally, it decreases gastrointestinal motility by relaxing smooth muscles.
Pharmacodynamics
Hyoscine has a rapid onset of action, typically within 30 minutes after administration, and its effects can last for several hours. By blocking muscarinic receptors, it reduces secretions and has an antispasmodic effect on the gastrointestinal tract, leading to decreased gastric motility. The sedative effects are attributed to its central nervous system penetration and subsequent inhibition of cholinergic transmission.
Pharmacokinetics
Hyoscine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and can cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to central effects. It is metabolized primarily in the liver and has a half-life of approximately 3 hours. The drug is eliminated via urine, with some metabolites excreted unchanged.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to hyosine or any component of the formulation
- Glaucoma
- Myasthenia gravis
- Severe ulcerative colitis
- Obstructive gastrointestinal conditions
Adverse effects
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Urinary retention
- Drowsiness
- Tachycardia
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
Interactions
- Antihistamines may enhance the anticholinergic effects
- Tricyclic antidepressants may increase the risk of adverse effects
- Alcohol may enhance sedation
- Antipsychotics may have additive effects on sedation
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease
- Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity
- Monitor for signs of anticholinergic toxicity
- Caution in patients with a history of seizures
Pregnancy
Hyosine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult healthcare providers for individual assessment.
Breast-feeding
Hyosine is excreted in breast milk, caution is advised when administered to nursing mothers. Consider the need for monitoring the infant.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Sublingual tablets
- Injectable formulations
- Transdermal patches
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.