travel calm vs kwells

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Hyoscine for travel sickness

Joy rides, kwells, scopoderm.

Peer reviewed by Sid Dajani Last updated by Michael Stewart, MRPharmS Last updated 21 Nov 2022

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

Follow the dosage directions on the label or pack. Do not take more than the recommended dose.

If you are taking tablets, take a dose about 30 minutes before you travel.

If you have been prescribed a patch, apply it to the skin behind your ear 5-6 hours before your journey starts.

Hyoscine may make you sleepy. If this happens, do not drive and do not use tools or machines.

In this article :

About hyoscine, before taking hyoscine, how to use hyoscine, getting the most from your treatment, can hyoscine cause problems, how to store hyoscine, important information about all medicines.

Continue reading below

Hyoscine is an effective medicine for travel sickness . It works by preventing the confusing messages going to your brain.

There are a number of different brands of tablet available which contain hyoscine as a salt, called hyoscine hydrobromide. You can buy these without a prescription at pharmacies. There are two strengths of tablets available: 300 microgram tablets for adults, and 150 microgram tablets for children. The dose for younger children will require halving a tablet.

There is also a product called Scopoderm® 1.5 mg patch. This is a patch for people aged 10 years or over. You stick the patch on to the skin behind your ear 5-6 hours before your journey, and then remove it at the end of the journey. The patch releases hyoscine through your skin and into your bloodstream.

One of the other effects of hyoscine is that it causes a dry mouth. It is sometimes prescribed by doctors for this reason, rather than to prevent travel sickness.

There is also a similar-sounding medicine called hyoscine butylbromide. This is an antispasmodic medicine which is used to relieve pain caused by tummy (abdominal) cramps. There is more information about this in a separate medicine leaflet called Hyoscine butylbromide tablets .

To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you (or your child) start taking hyoscine, it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are unwell and have a high temperature (fever).

If you have digestive system problems such as reflux disease, diarrhoea, or ulcerative colitis.

If you have an eye condition called glaucoma.

If you have high blood pressure, a fast heart rate, or any other heart problems.

If you have problems with your liver, kidneys or prostate gland.

If you have epilepsy.

If you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis.

If you have Down's syndrome.

If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about hyoscine, including a full list of the side-effects which you may experience from taking it.

Recommended doses are as follows:

For adults and children over 10 years of age: 150-300 micrograms.

For those aged 4-10 years: 75-150 micrograms.

For those aged 3-4 years: 75 micrograms.

You should take a dose of tablets 30-60 minutes before the start of the journey, and then repeat the dose after six hours if needed. There is a maximum number of tablets that can be taken in any 24-hour period, so remember to check the directions on the label carefully to make sure that you (or your child) do not take more than the recommended daily amount.

Read the label on the pack carefully to see whether the tablets should be sucked or chewed, or simply swallowed with a drink of water.

If you have been prescribed Scopoderm® 1.5 mg patches:

Stick one patch to the skin just behind your ear 5-6 hours before the start of your journey and remember to remove it after your arrival.

The effect of the patch can last up to 72 hours, so it is suitable for people taking long journeys.

Once removed, fold the patch in half so it sticks together and dispose of it carefully.

Remember to wash your hands after handling the patches, and also it is important to clean behind your ear after you have removed the patch. This is to make sure you remove any remaining traces of hyoscine from your skin.

Do not apply more than one patch at a time and do not cut the patches unless your doctor or a pharmacist tells you to.

Hyoscine can make you sleepy, and if you are using the patches, you may still feel sleepy the following day. If this happens, do not drive and do not use tools or machines until you feel well again. Also, avoid drinking alcohol, as this will increase the feelings of sleepiness.

When you buy any medicines, you should always check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take alongside your other medicines. This is particularly important with hyoscine because it can increase the side-effects from some other treatments.

Other things which can help to prevent travel sickness are:

Looking out of a window or sitting with your head tilted slightly backwards.

Taking regular breaks in your journey to have some fresh air and drink some cold water.

Breathing deeply and slowly while you listen to music.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with hyoscine. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

Important: on rare occasions more serious side-effects can occur when using hyoscine hydrobromide patches (Scopoderm ® patches). This is more likely if using the patches in a way the manufacturer did not intend, for example cutting patches or using more than one patch. People using hyoscine patches, or their carers, should be alert for signs that the dose is too high. These can include: a high temperature (fever), difficulty passing urine, confusion, disorientation, seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), fits or convulsions, reduced consciousness and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, remove the patch(es) immediately and seek medical help.

Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Never take more than the recommended dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.

If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.

If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Report side effects to a medicine or vaccine

If you experience side effects, you can report them online through the Yellow Card website .

Further reading and references

• Manufacturer's PIL, Kwells® Kids ; Dexcel Pharma Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2022.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Kwells® 300 microgram tablets ; Dexcel Pharma Ltd, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2022.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Joy-Rides® Tablets ; Teva UK Limited, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2020.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Scopoderm® 1.5 mg Patch ; GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2021.
• Medicines Complete BNF 87th Edition ; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.

Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

Next review due: 20 Nov 2025

21 nov 2022 | latest version.

Last updated by

Peer reviewed by

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Motion Sickness Tablets: Trying to buy beforehand in States - Cairns Forum

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Motion Sickness Tablets: Trying to buy beforehand in States

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So been doing a lot of research on how to get prepared on heading out to the great barrier reef.

A common suggestion is purchasing motion sickness tablets... I see mainly two that seem popular: kwells or travelcalm both products available in AU.

Doing some research looks like:

-Kwells active ingredient is hyoscine hydrobromide

-Travelcalm active ingredient is ginger

We're coming from the States, so getting a ginger pill is easy, but when I researched trying to get a Kwells equivalent, found hyoscine hydrobromide is known as scopolamine in the States.

It's by prescription in the States which requires visiting my doctor and paying multiple co-pays for the visit and the drug <sigh>.

So thinking maybe better if we just purchase when we get there. I read that you can buy it in the drugstore locally in AU and just need to talk to a chemist/pharmacist? (no dr. apt?).

Are you highly prone to motion sickness? I wouldn't have thought you'd need tablets otherwise for going out on the Reef...

Hi cathhuan -

I'm a Yank living in Perth. It's been my experience that over-the-counter meds here in OZ are much higher than in the US, so much so that I usually bring them back with me from the US. An example...I have a bottle of motiion sickness tabs right in front of me - the active ingredient is Dimenhydrinate...the bottle was purchased at a Walmart for less than $3 for a 100 tablet bottle. I have yet to see any over-the-counter meds that cheap here in OZ. The last bottle of cough syrup I bought was $16...just for a regular over-the-counter bottle that would have cost me about $4 in the US.

I suggest you just pick up something like Dramamine in your local shop and bring it with you. Much cheaper and then you won't have to spend time chasing it down once you get here. There are lots of options right in your local supermarket or discount store.

Kwells aren't excessively expensive here in Australia. I bought some a few months back and paid around $10.00 a pack of 7 or 10 tablets. Can't imagine what you would do with a bottle of 100 of them! Surely they would be out of date before you got close to finishing them.

Another alternative which doesn't require taking medication is wrist bands which apply pressure to the wrist.

Don't know from personal experience as I'm never seasick, but only a couple of days ago an American friend used Travelcalm (bought over counter at local chemist) and she raved about their effectiveness. This was for a reef trip in around 25knots - she said she was one of the few on boat who wasn't sick.

I have been to the reef and islands on many occasions and never been sick. Once when coming back to Cairns from Green island it was a very rough trip. But I survived when others were sick, just made sure I had wind/fresh air in my face.

Anyway, now I check http://www.passageweather.com before going out, go to the South Pacific area, a look at wind (knots) and wave height, if you are very prone to sea sickness look for wind over 15-20kts and wave height over 2-3M you may need to take them. But that is only my view....perhaps I'm just lucky, as it's when the boat stops in big swells that I don't feel well

all the best PS we go out fishing regularly in our "tinnie"

Anyway, I took Travel Calm (ginger) for three days prior to this trip and put on a Scopiderm (spelling?) patch the night before and despite it being 20 - 25 knots they day we went and supposedly "moderately" rough (ie major rocking and rolling on the trip out and back), I was absolutely FINE! YAY!!

I must add tho' that there were quite a few who were NOT so OK and they were pretty miserable. Don't take the chance if you're unsure - and don't listen to anyone who tells you they're not necessary. But don't let seasickness put you off going - it is well and truly worth it.

cathuan if you suffer from motion sickness at all- take something. In my opinion it is far better to take something then to get to the point where you start to feel queezy and then it is too late.

Melnq8's ideas sounds great if you want to pick up something before you leave home but if you don't just walk into any pharmacy and go up to the counter and ask for some. You will not usually have to talk to the pharmacist- whoever serves you should just be able to give it to you. They usually work out about 80cents a tablet- that is not a lot really if it is going to save you from getting sick.

Motion sickness is an interesting creature

I have never ever been ill including 7m waves and being tossed like a cork in the norht sea.

OTOH GD can feel queasy going to manly

Kwells don't work for GD...but Dramamine does along with asure she is pretending to drive the boat (LOL a few trips have actually let her play that game)

To be more effective with your answer scope patches are more inclined to have side effects and are def designed for the longer cruise market. It's not something i would choose for daytripping

Kwells, Dramamine etc contain th same drug but you take on less more frequently...

travalcalm is the same as eating candied ginger...yep that sonds the best choice ig tryomg to avoid drugs

Something to think about...

$$$.. aren't always about how much you paid.......sometimes it makes the difference in enjoyment and then how calm the ocean is onthe day you go is the biggest factor

Kwells are very easy to get here - don't bother buying them before you go. Just find a chemist around the place where you are boarding the boat a couple of days beforehand and you should be fine.

My only seasickness experience was the now-defunct DevilCat ferry (Melbourne-George Town) in 5m swell. I find Kwells good for when I think something is going to be rough since that time and have never had a problem.

At our dive club we sometimes arrange a night out for dinner the night before.

Generally chinese and order up on the ginger. eg extra in the chow mein or ginger in our tea.

This helps many of our keen divers who are prone to sea sickness.

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How to Prevent Seasickness when Fishing

Home » Articles » How to Prevent Seasickness when Fishing

How to Prevent Seasickness when Fishing. Do you suffer from sea or motion sickness? I know this feeling very well, I am a keen fisherman who has suffered from seasickness for many years. It has become somewhat of a comical joke amongst friends who find it quite amusing. Does this sound familiar to you? You have planned a boating or fishing trip and you’re excited to hit the water. However, your day on the boat is ruined by seasickness feeling nauseous and dizzy and your body temperature rises. Before you know it you have forgotten all about the fishing and are clinging to the side of the boat throwing up overboard. 

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Seasickness also becomes a mental challenge. For years I refused to buy a boat or kayak fearful that I wouldn’t be able to use them properly. I avoided fishing trips anticipating that seasickness might ruin those events. I instead resorted to land-based fishing avoiding some amazing fishing opportunities. Seasickness cannot be cured but it can be managed. I have detailed years worth of medications and alternative therapies that now allow me to enjoy regular outings on the water not compromised by motion sickness. 

What is seasickness?

What is motion sickness and why does it affect some people and not others? Motion sickness is caused by a continuous unnatural movement that conflicts with your visual perception. Basically, this unnatural movement has your brain and motion senses conflicted. Your brain senses motion but your eyes see a still image. This generally causes dizziness, fatigue and discomfort which leads to nausea and vomiting. People with inner ear imbalances seem to be a lot more prone to these symptoms. But the good news is that it can be managed. I have tested and trailed just about every remedy under the sun and below will detail my success rates with medications, alternative therapies and general prevention.

How to prevent Seasickness with medications

Below is a list of suggested medications that we have used to manage seasickness when boating and fishing. The results, price and buying options to vary so it’s important to test and see which works best for you.

Travel Sickness Gel

• TravaCalm original
• Meclizine HCI
• 1300SeaSick ET

As with all medications take some time to read the side effects, consult your health professional for proper usage and risks and follow the necessary usage guidelines.

Kwells helps prevent seasickness when fishing

Kwells for me has been a real game-changer. Taking 2 Kwells pills 30 minutes prior to venturing out to sea has completely changed my outlook on boating. I have now had countless trips with kwells without any seasickness. There has only been the very odd occasion where I felt mild nausea. To improve my percentages I also made sure that I applied the general ways to avoid seasickness documented below. I really recommend it to anyone who suffers motion or seasickness.

Developed locally, The Green Dispensary Travel Sickness Gel was developed as a replacement for a patch medication previously available in Australia. The Green Dispensary Travel Sickness Gel is fast-acting, easy to use and OK for adults and children. Travel Sickness Gel is readily absorbed through the skin and is supplied in an easy to use topical syringe. For quick absorption, simply apply gel behind the ear. It will start to work in as little as ten minutes and helps to provide 8 to 12 hours of control over the symptoms of motion sickness, including seasickness.

In our experience, this gel has worked well and helped prevent nausea. I often use it whenever fishing offshore. It costs $19.99 however postage was $17.50 which was very steep.

Travacalm helps prevent seasickness when fishing

For this, I’m talking about the original Travacalm in the white and blue box. Not the other versions which are more ginger supplements. I have taken traval calm original in exactly the same fashion as Kwells 2 pills 30 minutes prior to hitting the water. However, Travel calm didn’t really do anything to help my seasickness. In fact, I can vividly recall the taste of throwing up travel calm on many occasions which weren’t pleasant. I do know others who have used it and had great success with both motion sickness and drowsiness. So might be one for you to test and see how it works for you.

Avomine helps prevent seasickness when fishing

Avomine is small circular tablet often used by those in the Navy. These are known to make you quite drowsy so y ou generally take one tablet the night before going out to sea. These can be purchased directly from the chemist without a medical prescription. These are known to be great for seasickness, dizziness and vertigo but are also used for those suffering from high anxiety. Personally, I haven’t used these but wanted to mention it as AI know others who have used them to great effect.

Meclizine HCI 25 helps prevent seasickness when fishing

Meclizine HCI 25 is very highly rated by many professional fishing operators that I work with. Many of the major cruise ships in Australia hand these pills out to travellers who suffer from seasickness during one of the cruises. I have several fishing friends who use these religiously after an experience on a cruise ship. Their words are there is nothing that provides the same results. The only catch here is that it’s not readily available over the shelf in Australia but however can be purchased online even on eBay.

Escape travel sickness 1300 seasick ETS

Endorsed by Andrew Ettingshausen the Escape Travel Sickness ETS is created by the team at Nile Compounding Chemist who has a 1300 hotline that you can dial and an online order assessment form where you can seek advice and have medication tailored to your symptoms. This has been highly regarded by many in the industry.

How to prevent Seasickness with Alternative therapies

There are also some very interesting alternative therapies available for motion sickness. After years of experimenting with them, I’m still not quite sure just how effective they are.

• Anti Nausea wristbands

Do Anti Nausea wristbands help with seasickness?

I was recommended to give these a go by a chemist many years ago after having no success with travel calm. They were called Sea-Band travel sickness kits and sold for about 20 dollars for 2 wrist bands. The science behind these wrist bands is to provide medication-free nausea prevention. This is done by applying a small amount of pressure on the Nei Kuan acupressure point on your wrist via a plastic stud in the wrist band. I was very sceptical of this concept at first but was very surprised that they somehow managed to work. For many years I have worn these wrist straps not knowing exactly how they work but confident that they are actually helping.

Does Ginger help with seasickness?

Another alternative therapy that comes up frequently is the usage of ginger root as a herbal remedy. There is no scientific evidence to show that this works but many naturopaths and herbal outlets will claim that it has calming properties that help digestion and prevent nausea feelings. These can be taken as pills, powders and drinks. I tried on many occasions taking ginger pills before venturing out and found they did nothing for me other than tasting horrible when being thrown up overboard.

General ways to avoid seasickness

The below points are things that I do for every outing to beat seasickness when boating and fishing. When I skip one of these steps I find that I’m a lot more prone to being seasick.

Preparation is the best way to prevent seasickness

Before preparing for your fishing trip there are some very basic fundamentals that you must do to help manage motion sickness.

• Avoid going out in rough, choppy conditions with high winds and high swells. Learn how to predict marine weather conditions by watching the video below. Locally there are helpful links such as Meteye for wind, and swell forecasts.

• Develop good eating and drinking habits before going out to sea. Eat and drink lightly the night before but enough to stay hydrated. Always avoid heavy drinking of alcohol the night before.
• Rig up your fishing gear before venturing out. The main reason for this is to avoid the need to look down. Looking down makes you lose your perception and encourages nausea. Tying knots and rigs whilst you are looking down and bouncing around is just bad news for motion sickness. When I have to do this I then generally spend the next 5 minutes looking straight at something in the distance to regain my composure. I also dress freely to allow the fresh air to make contact with my skin which seems to help greatly.
• Get a good night’s sleep the night before going on a boat. This is a must as drowsiness seems to accelerate concentration levels, dizziness and seasickness. They collide and it’s not pleasant when they do. The best remedy is a good night’s rest before going out. This is especially true for those who suffer from inner ear imbalance or headaches.
• Where possible be the driver of the vessel and not the passenger. Have you ever been carsick? was it when you were the passenger or the driver? In all my experiences and those that I have spoken with on this topic, all agree that it’s generally when you were the passenger. It’s surprising but the same logic does apply when you’re on a boat. I think for those with motion imbalance by being the driver you are gaining some level of control.
• Avoid staring at your sounder or mobile phone for extended periods of time whilst at sea. This will take your eyes off the horizon which is used by your eyes as a point of reference to stay balanced.
• Pick a non-moving object in the distance. It might be a hill, a tree or a building. Keep this as your line of sight. Anytime you feel queasy stop what you are doing and keep fixated on this line of sigh until the queasiness stops. This stops you from focusing on the constant movement which is the root cause of seasickness.
• Invest in a life jacket that is comfortable and breathable. Getting overheating or feeling restricted are ways that can bring on feeling nausea.

Final notes from the author

I hope you enjoyed this article How to Prevent Seasickness when Fishing. All this advice will be from yours truly, someone who has suffered from seasickness for many years. Boating is a great pass time so hopefully, with practice, you’ll overcome seasickness. For locals, Port Phillip Bay and Western Port are great fishing destinations here are some GPS hotspots to get you started. I hope you find this article useful and encourage you to share your feedback and experiences by emailing us at  [email protected]

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Travel sickness self-care

by myDr | Pharmacy Care , Travel Health

General Information

See your pharmacist or medical professional, treatment tips, treatment options, more information.

Travel or motion sickness may occur in any type of moving vehicle, such as a car, boat or plane.

It may be due to either an over-stimulation of the balance mechanisms located within the inner ear, or to a temporary inability of the brain to process conflicting information arising from the various sensory systems monitoring balance within the body.

The sensory systems involved are:

• inner ears, which monitor the direction of motion
• eyes, which monitor where the body is and the direction of motion
• skin pressure sensors, which monitor what parts of the body are touching the ground
• muscles and joint sensors, which monitor what parts of the body are moving

For example, in a boat tossed about by waves, your ears and skin detect that you are moving, but your eyes are focused on the cabin wall. Signals from your inner ears, skin, and eyes are in conflict, and this is what makes you feel sea-sick.

Children aged 2 to 12 years are more likely to have travel sickness than adults and younger children. Women are more susceptible to travel sickness than men; this may be related to hormonal changes during pregnancy and menstruation.

Having a stomach filled with fatty, spicy food and fizzy or alcoholic drinks can make someone more likely to feel sick during travel. Feeling anxious, tired or unwell can also increase the risk of travel sickness. Some people develop a conditioned response, so that even just sitting in a car can make them feel sick.

Once the person with travel sickness has vomited, they normally feel better, although symptoms may return and become more severe. After a few days of exposure to the motion, such as on a boat, people will adapt. Symptoms of travel sickness can settle down and even disappear.

Travel sickness tends to improve once you reach your destination; however, it may take a few hours or days to improve completely, as you will need to re-adapt to the lack of movement once motion stops.

Symptoms of travel sickness

• hyperventilating (rapid, deep breathing)
• looking pale
• producing more saliva than normal
• if you have stomach discomfort, nausea or vomiting – especially if these symptoms persist after travel is completed
• if you have become pale, especially in the face
• if you are sweating, or feeling hot
• if you have goose pimples and are feeling cold
• if you feel dizzy, faint or have an ear infection or ear pain
• if you feel sick when you move your head
• if the person with travel sickness is a child, and they have become quiet and withdrawn
• if you have severe anxiety associated with travel, such as fear of flying, which may require specialist counselling
• if your symptoms have become worse over time
• if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; some products may not be suitable for you (ask your pharmacist)
• if you have other medical conditions (e.g. glaucoma, epilepsy or heart disease), or take other medicines, such as for depression; some products may not be suitable for you (ask your pharmacist)
• if you have problems urinating or prostate problems; some products may not be suitable for you (ask your pharmacist)
• if you have allergies to any medicines
• the best way to treat travel sickness is to prevent it
• avoid heavy, fatty and spicy meals and alcohol before travelling
• a light, simple meal about one hour before travel is best. Glucose, such as lollies or lemonade and biscuits, are useful snacks
• peppermint or ginger taken an hour before travel may help
• stay calm and relaxed before travel and, if possible, stop for breaks during the trip
• sit in the most stable area to keep motion at a minimum, such as over an aeroplane wing, in the front seat of a car, or on a ship’s deck
• sit facing in the direction you are travelling, so that a distant, stable reference point can be seen, such as the road ahead or the horizon
• lie down (if possible), use a head support and close your eyes to reduce head movement
• avoid activities, such as reading, that encourage looking down and require close visual concentration
• listen to music or do something to distract you
• get plenty of fresh air if possible (open personal air vents on planes)
• make sure you have plenty of sick bags in case you vomit
• bring an oral rehydration solution as a precaution for dehydration caused by vomiting
• medicines are more effective if you use them to prevent travel sickness. They can be taken from 30 minutes to 2 hours before travel. Some can be taken up to 5 to 6 hours before travel, or the night before
• some preparations are not suitable for children; check manufacturer’s directions. Sedating antihistamines should not be used for the prevention and treatment of motion sickness in children under the age of 2 and should be used with caution in older children.
• side effects of medicines for travel sickness may include drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation and confusion; stop taking the medicine if you experience any of these and they bother you
• do not drink alcohol with medicines that make you drowsy
• young children and elderly people are more sensitive to side effects of medicines. Rarely, some travel sickness medicines cause children to become over-excited; stop using the medicine if this happens

[PHARMACY ONLY] e.g. hyoscine hydrobromide (Kwells, Travacalm HO)

• make sure the correct dose is used according to the age of the person (check product instructions)
• hyoscine hydrobromide has a shorter duration of action therefore is recommended for shorter journeys
• the first dose should be taken 30 minutes before travel
• this medication may cause drowsiness

Antihistamines

[PHARMACY ONLY]

e.g. promethazine theoclate (Avomine) 10 pack

[PHARMACIST ONLY] e.g. promethazine hydrochloride ( Phenergan )

• promethazine needs to be taken 1 to 2 hours prior to travel and is useful for longer travel times
• this medication will cause drowsiness
• should not be used if you are doing any water activities, such as deep-water diving, or you will be operating heavy machinery

Combination products

[PHARMACY ONLY] e.g. hyoscine hydrobromide, dimenhydrinate, caffeine (Travacalm Original)

Acupressure wrist bands

[GENERAL SALE] e.g. Sea-Band

• these bands are placed on acupressure points on your wrists to help reduce feelings of nausea related to travel
• there have been reports of success; however, this depends on correctly placing the bands
• they can be used by people of all ages and during pregnancy

Other products

[GENERAL SALE] e.g.ginger (Travacalm Natural, Blackmores Travel Calm Ginger)

• does not cause drowsiness and is a more suitable option in pregnancy at the recommended dose

Availability of medicines

• GENERAL SALE available through pharmacies and possibly other retail outlets.
• PHARMACY ONLY available for sale through pharmacies only.
• PHARMACIST ONLY may only be sold by a pharmacist.

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Brand name: Travacalm Original TM

Active ingredients: dimenhydrinate + hyoscine hydrobromide + caffeine

What it is used for

For the prevention of travel sickness .

How to take it

The way to take this medicine is: Oral. This medicine is taken by mouth.

• Store below 30 degrees Celsius
• Protect from Light
• Protect from Moisture
• Shelf lifetime is 3 Years.

You should seek medical advice in relation to medicines and use only as directed by a healthcare professional.

Always read the label. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.

Visual appearance

Flat white tablet with a half score on one side. 9.0 mm diameter

Do I need a prescription?

What is the medicines and poisons schedule.

This medicine is available from a pharmacy without prescription. It is Schedule 2 : Pharmacy Medicine. open tool tip to find out more

This medicine contains the active ingredients:

• dimenhydrinate + hyoscine hydrobromide + caffeine

If you are over 65 years of age, there may be specific risks and recommendations for use of this medicine. Please discuss your individual circumstances with your pharmacist, doctor or health professional. For more information read our page on medication safety for older people .

Reporting side effects

You can help ensure medicines are safe by reporting the side effects you experience.

You can report side effects to your doctor, or directly at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems

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Shopping | ES Best Home | Health & Fitness

Best remedies for travel sickness, tried and tested 2024

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It’s human nature to fantasise about upcoming holidays on grey days in the office. 

Yet if a destination requires hours of travel to reach, travel sickness sufferers face a conundrum. Endure gut-wrenching nausea or ditch the hols altogether? 

If you are prepared to combat motion sickness, the answer is neither. According to the Centers for Disease and Control : “Motion sickness happens when the movement you see is different from what your inner ear senses. This can cause dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.” 

Travel sickness can occur on any mode of transport: in the car on a train, plane or boat. Unless you plan to swim to your sun-soaked vacay destination, it’s best to be prepared. 

To avoid experiencing car sickness before your journey, there are some precautionary steps to take.

How to minimise travel sickness

• Sit in the front of a car or bus
• Choose a window seat on flights and trains
• Lying down, shutting your eyes, sleeping, or looking at the horizon
• Staying hydrated and limiting alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
• Eating small amounts of food frequently
• Avoid smoking
• Distract yourself by listening to music but avoid screen time
• Sucking on flavoured lozenges such as ginger candy.

For those struggling with severe travel sickness, speak to a healthcare professional about prescription solutions. For milder but no less distressing sickness, we consulted two medical experts.

Dr Reval Sukkhu and nurse Helen Chetwynd from HCA Healthcare UK suggest three key treatments for travel sickness: “Firstly, travel bands . While their efficacy is unclear, the theory is based on something akin to acupuncture. Travel bands apply pressure to certain point on the wrist. Despite lack of empirical evidence, some people find them helpful. They are suitable for people over the age of 12."

"Secondly, antihistamines. There are oral tablets available over the counter in the UK such as Cinnarizine (brand name, Sturgeron) or Promethazine Teoclate. Individuals should speak to a pharmacist to see what is most suitable for them, as this type of medication can make you drowsy."

"Finally, Hyoscine Hydrobromide. It is thought to work by affecting the inner ear and neurological system to control vomiting. It is available in the form of tablets such as Kwells, Joy-Rides and Travel Calm or patches.”

Discover the best anti-sickness remedies to take before and during travel and jet off with peace of mind this summer. 

Best calming items for anxious flyers

Best anxiety bracelets for serene self-soothing

Best eye masks to help you get a good night’s sleep

Best lavender essential oils and the benefits for deep relaxation

Kwells 300 Microgram Tablets - 12 tablets

Stop feelings of sickness quickly by popping a Kwells. The tablets feature sickness-subsiding Hyoscine Hydrobromide which restore a sense of stability. The melt-in-your-mouth tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 10 years and over.

Sea-Band’s wristbands feature a plastic stud in each band that exerts pressure onto the wrist. This helps alleviate sickness during long and short periods of travel. Slip yours on and let the single piece work its magic. 

Stugeron - 15 Tablets

If your kids struggle with travel sickness, Sturgeron’s tablets could be a winning choice. The pills can be given to those over the age of five, making them relatively a child-friendly option. Formed from Cinnarizine, the tablets are easy to take and affordable.

Aesop Ginger Flight Therapy

Aesop’s Ginger Flight Therapy is a travel-sized roll-on enhanced with ginger root, lavender and geranium oils. Designed for your pulse points, the portable item can be applied to the temples, wrists, neck and stomach when stress or nausea arises.

Puressentiel SOS Travel Sickness Roller with 7 Essential Oils 5ml

A highly useful product that acts as a balancer and harmoniser of the nervous system, the Puressentiel SOS Travel Sickness Roller features seven stimulating essential oils to help ease and prevent travel sickness. Inhale soothing notes of the roller and relax without a hint of nausea.

Bach Rescue Remedy

Rescue Remedy is a classic. Pop four drops onto your tongue when the nerves start to set in and let the comforting flower essences work their magic. There’s no need for additional water or faff, so you can drift off with total ease.

Sea-Band Nausea Relief Ginger Capsules for Travel Sickness Relief

Opt for a natural remedy and add Sea-Band’s nausea relief to your pre-holiday shopping basket. The capsules are a non-drowsy remedy for the clinically proven prevention and relief of travel and motion sickness. Each capsule contains 250mg of ginger sourced from natural ginger root that helps support digestive health and soothes the stomach.

MQ Motion Sickness Patch for Car and Boat Rides

Apply this 100 per cent natural patch behind your earlobe and let it do all the work for you. Attach 10 minutes before your time of travel and enjoy long-lasting effects for one to three days. Unsuitable for pregnant women. 

Teapigs Sweet Ginger Tea Made With Whole Herbs

Sweet-toothed tea sippers will adore Teapigs' ginger remedy. A fiery blend of anti-nausea ginger, liquorice roots and cinnamon ease digestion, while offering a gentle pick-me-up during the day.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) with MagSafe Charging Case 2022

The Apple AirPods Pros are a game changer. With complete noise-cancelling effects, a smooth, sleek design and adaptive transparency to tune in and out of background noise, these earbuds are a worthwhile investment.

Adjust the volume via the high-tech touch controls and dive right into your stress-free, in-flight entertainment, knowing the product’s six hour battery will have you covered through your short haul flight and beyond. To avoid sickness, keep screen time limited during use.

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Best travel/sea sickness tablet

BlueBloodedBlue · 14/05/2022 16:38

As I've got older, I'm increasingly suffering from travel sickness. Any recommendations for non-drowsy tablets or are they all much of a muchness?

Kwells don’t make me drowsy

My DDs swear by Boots own brand. Both were unaffected on the Scilly ferry in bad weather when the rest of their group were 🤢

Stugeron. UK ones much lower dosage than the same product in Spain but till seemed fairly effective on my last trip across the Bay of Biscay.

Interested in this thread?

Then you might like threads about this subject:

Boots own brand are my favourite non drowsy. They are the same formulation as Kwells. Phenergan if you want drowsy.

fussychica · 14/05/2022 17:04

Second Stugeron.

Cyclizine but you might need a prescription - it seems to come and go from being available OTC. If not Stugeron is not a bad substitute (25mg).

Benefit of quells & the boots own ones is they are quick acting so you can take only if you start feeling unwell. Whereas sturgeron has to be taken 2 hrs in advance. Boots own are my faves

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Stugeron. Saved me on a messy ferry trip to the Scillies, and recommended by my host there.

If you want SERIOUSLY effective travel sickness relief you can buy patches called Scopoderm patches. They can be got on private prescription, or they can be bought online but you go through a 'health check' questionnaire before it lets you buy them, to ensure you really want them for travel. Because they are only available privately, they are very expensive, about £34 for 2 patches or about £49 for 4, but each patch lasts up to 72 hours. Usually a patch is applied below the hairline, behind the ear. These patches are used by scientists travelling to places such as Antarctica, where the ships must cross the notorious 'Drakes Passage' sea voyage, which is very, very rough most of the time. There isn't much else that can cope with such seasickness. Depends on how seasick you get! The wording on the medication states: "The Scopoderm patch contains an active ingredient called 'hyoscine hydrobromide', which belongs to a group of medications named antimuscarinics. Hyoscine prevents motion sickness by interfering with the communication of particular nerve messages that would usually trigger vomiting and sickness". Might be useful for someone to know this, perhaps....

I would of said Stugeron previously, but have just been on a quite choppy cruise and used Avomine - which I bought in Superdrug - Brilliant things I would now not use anything else

Avomine are excellent, and I also use stugeron. Kwells make me feel high/drunk, to the point where I find it hard to walk in a straight line, but don’t have the same affect on my dd.

JoyRide are the only tablets that work for my son.

Sturgeon here too

Stugeron that should say (bloody autocorrect)...

Boots own brand are great, my children and I take them.

Boots and joy rides have the active ingredient hyoscine which is what's in the patches mentioned above. I find they're very effective

Kwells is also hyoscine hydrobromide, like the above patches (although perhaps a lower dose). I do prefer Stugeron personally, but you need to remember to take 2 hours prior, unlike Kwells which is just 20 mins. I got very nauseous with Kwells on an empty stomach.

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Online Doctor and Pharmacy

Contact Dr Fox

• T: 0117 2050198
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• FAQs : Travel sickness

Why do I get travel sickness?

Why doesn't everyone get travel sickness, what are the symptoms of travel sickness, what can i do about travel sickness apart from taking medicines, what medicines help travel sickness, how do i use scopoderm patches, which travel sickness medicine will work best for me, i am over 60 years, which travel sickness treatment is best for me, i take other medicines - can i take travel sickness medication, can i drink alcohol with travel sickness medicines, i'm pregnant or breastfeeding - can i take travel sickness medication, can i drive whilst taking travel sickness medication, i have sensitive skin - can i use the scopoderm patches, i have a sticky plaster allergy - can i use scopoderm patches, are the side effects of the medicines worse than the travel sickness, is there lactose in travel sickness pills.

Travel sickness is caused by a mismatch of signals to the brain between your eyes and the balance mechanism in your inner ear. The brain is confused and reacts with symptoms of travel sickness.

Scientists still don't have the answer to this one, though it seems that women and migraine sufferers are more likely to develop motion sickness. There is a suggestion that it runs in families and that our bodies can adapt and become less susceptible. In particular, seasick sailors will often acclimatise after 3 or 4 days at sea.

The main symptoms of travel sickness are pale, cold, sweaty skin, dizziness, and vomiting. The sufferer will tend to become quiet and withdrawn. If it becomes very severe, especially with a prolonged sea sickness, you can also suffer from headache, lethargy, lack of concentration, and repeated vomiting leading to dehydration.

You can try several other things as well as, or instead of, medicines - they include:

• Sitting in a calmer part of the car, boat, or plane such as the front seat, centre of the boat, or by the wing on a plane.
• Focusing your eyes on the distance or the route ahead by steering the boat or driving (only if not severely affected).
• Stay in fresh air either outside or with an open window.
• Sleeping or resting with your eyes closed.
• Don't focus on close objects such as looking at screens or reading.
• Do not eat heavy spicy meals or take alcohol, and avoid cooking smells.
• Break up the journey if possible.
• You can buy acupressure bands and anti-motion sickness glasses which some people find helpful.

Dr Fox supplies hyoscine, promethazine, and cinnarizine to treat travel sickness. Hyoscine can be used as a patch ( Scopoderm ) or tablets ( Kwells ). Promethazine ( Avomine ) and cinnarizine ( Stugeron ) are tablets. All treatments are most effective if started before you travel and feel unwell but may help to improve symptoms if you are already feeling sick.

The patch is stuck on the skin behind your ear and lasts for 3 days. After this it should be removed and a new patch placed behind the other ear if required. More details on the Scopoderm page and in the Scopoderm patient leaflet . It is important to remove one patch before starting another to prevent overdose and also to wash your hands after touching the patch. Avoid touching your eyes after handling the patch.

Dr Fox offers three different tablets and patches. The table below shows the major differences. It depends on the length of your intended journey. Some people will get on better with one tablet than another, or prefer to use a patch.

If over 60 you should NOT take Kwells (hyoscine) or use Scopoderm patches (hyoscine) without discussing with your regular doctor first. You can take the antihistamine tablets, either Avomine (promethazine) or Stugeron (cinnarizine). If you are also taking other medicines or have certain medical conditions you may not be able to take these either. Checks are carried out during the online medical consultation .

Anti-travel sickness medications can interact with some other tablets and medicines. Checks are carried out during the online medical consultation , but you should also read the patient information leaflet and if in doubt check with your usual doctor.

Alcohol should not be taken with any of the travel sickness medications.

Please discuss with your regular doctor if you suffer from severe travel sickness and are pregnant or breastfeeding. The medications supplied by Dr Fox are not recommended to be taken when pregnant or breastfeeding. However in cases of extreme morning sickness - Hyperemesis gravidarum, doctors do occasionally prescribe similar medications. This is a specialist area and Dr Fox does not prescribe in pregnancy or to breastfeeding mums.

Further information

• Medicines in pregnancy - Hyoscine (Scopoderm, Kwells)
• Medicines in pregnancy - Promethazine (Avomine)

All travel sickness medications can cause drowsiness and so you should not take them and drive, until you are sure that your body has adjusted to them, usually after a few days. Often the driver of a vehicle feels less travel sick as they are concentrating on the road ahead and there is less mismatch of movement signals to the brain. Do not drive if you are feeling very travel sick.

Some people with sensitive skin do develop itching and soreness at the site of the patch. If this happens it will affect the absorption so the patch should be removed and an alternative travel sickness medication used instead.

If you have a known plaster/patch allergy, it would be preferable to choose an alternative anti-sickness method.

There are a lot of potential side effects from these medications but in reality most people do not have many problems and the medication enables them to undertake journeys which would otherwise be very miserable. If you suffer badly from travel sickness, and have already tried the non medical methods, then it would definitely be worth looking at the product information pages ( Scopoderm , Kwells , Avomine , Stugeron ) to see if there is a suitable option for you to try.

• There is no lactose in Kwells.
• Avomine contains lactose.
• Stugeron contains lactose and sucrose.

Authored 23 September 2020 by Dr A. Wood MB ChB Manchester University 1984. Former NHS GP in Bristol. GMC no. 2855422

Reviewed by Dr C. Pugh , Dr B. Babor Last reviewed 04 August 2023 Last updated 5 June 2024 Editorial policy

• Travel sickness
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Mike McKinnon

How to minimize motion sickness.

• May 4, 2018

By Ken Wishaw and Ben Wishaw

Ben Wishaw is a platinum diver and owner of Twin Waters Pharmacy and Ken Wishaw is a platinum diver and retired medical specialist.

This constitutes general advice only and does not replace individual medical or pharmacist advice.

Motion detection relies on integration of touch and pressure, what our eyes perceive, and signals from the balance organ in our middle ear.

Motion sickness occurs when we detect motion that is unusual or where the input from the above receptors does not agree.

Motion sickness is almost exclusively caused by vertical movement, particularly negative acceleration such as what you feel when a lift starts down or going over a speed bump. Such motion is rarely encountered in everyday life, so such movement is confusing to the brain.

The word nausea is derived from the Greek word for “ship.”

In the brain the vomiting centre and balance centre are adjacent. This in part explains why the unusual movements on a boat induces nausea and vomiting.

Here are some evidence based (as against anecdotal) tips, and medication advice to minimize seasickness.

Non-medication

• Look out to the horizon to help the brain make sense of the perceived movement.
• Close your eyes to remove the visual and motion discrepancy.
• Minimize vertical acceleration, by changing posture or position in the boat in order to minimize vertical acceleration and deceleration. Moving to the back of the boat or lying down can sometimes decrease motion sickness dramatically.
• Avoid smells such as petrol fumes
• Focus on breathing.

Medications

There are an enormous variety of medications claiming to help with seasickness, many of which are unproven. Brand marketing is very confusing, so evidence based useful medications requires burrowing under the brand name and looking for the generic (scientific) name of the active ingredients. There is considerable variability in effectiveness, and side effects, so experimentation is necessary to find what works for you.

Additionally there is a large placebo effect. Some studies show up to 20% of subjects cure their motion sickness even when they have been given a pill with no active ingredients. The belief that they have been given something useful is sufficient to improve their motion sickness. This explains the high incidence of people anecdotally claiming a certain drug or device works for them even though scientific studies show that it has no effect, and provides a great topic for a heated debate!

Effective drugs

The two main groups of anti- seasickness drugs are anti-histamines and anti muscarinic drugs. I have listed the generic (scientific) name and at least one brand name.

Anti-histamines that have scientifically proven benefit are;

• Promethazine Hydrochloride (e.g. “Phenergan”)
• Dimenhydrinate (which is found in Travacalm “original”)
• Both are sedating.
• Promethazine Theoclate (e.g. “Avomine”) is an antihistamine that has an anti motion sickness effect that lasts much longer then the sedation. Taking it the night before diving can give protection the following day, even after the sedation has passed.

Anti Muscarinic drugs that have scientifically proven benefit are

• Hyoscine (e.g. “Kwells,” “Travacalm HO”),
• Cyclizine (e.g. “Nausicalm”).

Common side effects of these drugs include sedation, dry mouth and blurred vision. In high doses Hyoscine can, in some people, cause hallucinations, so it is recommended to try on dry land before using at sea.

• Hyoscine has a second scientific name; Scopolamine.

Possibly effective drugs

• Caffeine has a proven weak anti motion sickness effect.
• Ginger is touted as a “traditional” anti motion sickness plant extract. It has not been well investigated. The only trial that showed effectiveness included just 7 subjects. Other quality trials have shown no benefit.

Ineffective drugs

• Ondansatron (e.g. Zofran) is a commonly used drug for drug induced nausea, but is not effective for motion sickness.
• Non-sedating antihistamines such as Fexofenadine (e.g.Telfast), and Azatadine Maleate (e.g.“Zadine”) cannot get into the brain and have no effect on motion sickness

There are so many versions of Travacalm, it needs special mention.

• “Travacalm HO” contains Hyoscine only.
• “Travacalm Original” combines Hyoscine, Dimenhydrinate, and caffeine.
• “Travacalm Natural” is the same as “Travacalm Ginger”. Its only “active “ ingredient is ginger root extract.

Hyoscine (scopolamine) patches

These are not available in Australia, but are highly effective. They have a sophisticated design, which provides a loading dose for rapid onset of effect and then a sustained release effect, which lasts up to 48 hours. Effectiveness is not dependent on where the patch is applied, except on the sole of the feet where the skin is too thick to penetrate. Blurred vision is extremely common if hands are not washed immediately after application due to the loading dose of drug in the glue.

What works for you may not work for someone else. It is a matter of individual trialling.

All effective medications have side effects, some of which can be dangerous at sea and especially underwater. It is prudent therefore to try these medications before venturing out to see what side effects occur.

Other measures

• “Acu pressure bands” have not been demonstrated to be effective.

Acclimatization

Regular exposure to motion that created motion sickness decreases its incidence. Unfortunately taking motion sickness medication blocks this acclimatization.

When all else fails …….

Sit under a tree!

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• Kwells 300 microgram tablets
• Kwells Kids 150 microgram tablets
• Travel Sickness
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Join our journey of discovery for tips to prevent travel sickness

Here to help you enjoy the journey

Kwells has been a go-to, over-the-counter travel sickness remedy for UK travellers for over three decades.

We believe the journey is as important as the destination and that travel sickness shouldn’t dampen your day out or your adventurous holiday spirit.

Kwells travel sickness tablets for adults and children over the age of 10 and Kwells Kids for children over the age of four are used for the fast and effective prevention and control of travel sickness.

About motion sickness

Motion sickness is the general term used to describe the nausea symptoms caused by repeated movements when you’re travelling, such as going over bumps in a car or moving up and down in a boat. 1

It can also occur on fairground rides, while playing video games 2 or using Virtual Reality headsets 3 .

Also known as cybersickness, VR motion sickness sufferers experience similar symptoms to those who suffer from travel sickness.

About travel sickness

Travel sickness is common, particularly in children 4 and is caused by repeated movements when travelling whether its car, boat, plane or train.

It occurs when the inner ear sends different signals to your brain from those your eyes are seeing. 1 These confusing messages cause you to feel unwell.

Symptoms can include a headache and nausea, feeling cold and going pale, sweating and feeling weak. 4

About sea sickness

Alongside car sickness and air sickness, sea sickness is an unpleasant combination of symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and vomiting. 2 Sea sickness is said to be the most common form of motion sickness. 5

Whether it’s a cruise ship or a boat it’s caused by the vessel moving up and down over the water, again sending those mixed messages from your eyes and inner ear to the brain.

About car sickness

Whether it’s a day out or a staycation, car sickness can really put a downer on a journey. As with other forms of travel sickness, car sickness is caused by the repeated movements of travelling.

Thankfully there are things you can do to prevent or relieve the symptoms and unlike being on water or in the air, you can stop for breaks for fresh air, refreshment and exercise.

Children aged three to 12 are most likely to suffer from travel sickness – and this often becomes apparent on car journeys – with most teenagers growing out of the condition.

About nausea

Nausea, or feeling sick, is one of the main motion sickness symptoms. 4

And here’s an interesting fact for you; the word nausea is derived from the Greek word ‘naus’ which came from ‘nautical’ meaning a ship!

If you do feel sick while travelling fresh air may help as well as taking sips of a cold drink – some people find fizzy drinks work best. 6 You could also try focussing on a stable object such as the horizon or closing your eyes. 2

References:

1 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/motion-sickness/

2 https://111.wales.nhs.uk/travelhealth/TravelSickness/

3 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/923616/safety-domestic-vr-systems.pdf

4 https://patient.info/travel-and-vaccinations/health-advice-for-travel-abroad/motion-travel-sickness

5 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7048153/

6 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/feeling-sick-nausea/

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You’ve taken the plunge and booked a holiday on the high seas! Anticipating your first cruise is incredibly exciting…

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Short trips or big adventures, you can help end the misery and unhappiness of travel sickness..

Kwells 300 microgram tablets and Kwells Kids 150 microgram tablets are used for the fast and effective prevention and control of travel sickness.

• Contains Hyoscine Hydrobromide
• Helps prevent travel sickness

Kwells 300 microgram tablets. For the prevention of travel sickness, suitable for adults and children aged 10+. Contains Hyoscine Hydrobromide 300 microgram. Kwells Kids 150 microgram tablets. For the prevention of travel sickness, suitable for children aged 4+. Contains Hyoscine Hydrobromide 150 microgram. Always read the label

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TravaCalm Original

TravaCalm Original is for the prevention of travel sickness. The triple active formula is specially formulated with two ingredients to help prevent travel sickness, as well as caffeine to help counteract drowsiness.

Ideal for longer duration trips 1 .

Suitable for adults and children aged 4 years and over.

Take 30 minutes before departure.

• Adults: 1 or 2 tablets. Repeat four to six hourly if necessary (do not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours).
• Children: Not recommended for children under 4 years of age. 4 to 7 years take half a tablet. 8 to 13 years take one tablet. Repeat six to eight hourly if necessary (do not exceed three doses in 24 hours).

INGREDIENTS

Active ingredients per tablet:

• Dimenhydrinate 50mg
• Hyoscine hydrobromide 200 micrograms
• Caffeine 20mg

Contains lactose and a small/trace amounts of gluten, less than 20 parts per million.

Q. When should I take TravaCalm Original for motion sickness?

A. Take the first dose 30 minutes before departure to prevent motion sickness.

If you suffer from motion sickness, or think that you may experience motion sickness, it’s best to take TravaCalm

Original before you travel, that is, before you experience any symptoms of motion sickness.

Q. Does TravaCalm Original contain gluten?

A. TravaCalm Original contains a small/trace amounts of gluten, less than 20 parts per million.

You can also try the Travacalm Travel Band (a drug-free device worn on the wrist).

Q. Is TravaCalm Original suitable for me if I have difficulty swallowing tablets?

A. TravaCalm Original can be crushed and mixed with water, jam or honey before giving to young children or people who have difficulty swallowing tablets. It can be given to children 4 years of age and older.

Q. Can TravaCalm Original be used by children?

A. TravaCalm Original can be given to children 4 years of age and older.

  Q. Can TravaCalm Original cause drowsiness?

A. TravaCalm Original may cause drowsiness. If you feel drowsy, do not drive a vehicle or operate machinery.

There are other options. TravaCalm Ginger is a non-drowsy formula and the TravaCalm Travel Band is a drug-free device that does not cause drowsiness.

1. Oosterveld J Travel Med 1995; 2182-185. Graudins L. Aust Prescr 2009;32:61–3

Products in the same range

TravaCalm H.O. Chewable

TravaCalm Ginger

What is hyoscine? The travel sickness drug behind a mass overdose of backpackers in Perth

The spotlight has been thrown on the pharmaceutical drug hyoscine after it was linked to the mass overdose of a group of Perth backpackers who snorted a mysterious substance sent to them in the mail.

The drug is typically used in much smaller quantities to treat conditions such as travel sickness, marketed under brands such as Kwells and Travacalm.

But experts say the amount of hyoscine included in these over-the-counter medications is far too small to be dangerous, or ellicit any kind of drug high.

Stronger doses of hyoscine can also be prescribed by doctors to treat more extreme cases of nausea.

But it has also been likened to a date rape substance due to its ability to incapacitate people in more concentrated doses.

The drug works by impacting neurotransmitters, which carry messages between a person's brain and nervous system.

Curtin University's National Drug Research Institute Professor Steve Allsop said that, when abused, hyoscine can carry severe risks.

"You have things such as euphoria, relaxation but then a sense of dissociation, you may have mild adverse reactions such as dry mouth," he said.

"But you can also end up with a very rapid heartbeat, agitation and indeed overdose where people have taken so much they become unconscious.

"It's sometimes been referred to as another date rape drug like rohypnol, where it was used to actually make people unconscious …"

How widespread is hyoscine abuse?

In its medication form, hyoscine is commonly taken as a tablet, but when abused it can be crushed and inhaled.

Professor Allsop said it is not a commonly abused drug in Australia, but there has been concern about hyoscine abuse in the British prison system.

"Warnings went out to people who were prescribing to people in the justice system, to be mindful of the potential abuse of the drug when they prescribed it," he said.

Professor Allsop said hyoscine also had effects similar to depressants or anaesthetics.

He was surprised hyoscine was identified in this week's mass overdose involving nine backpackers, as he had not heard of the drug's widespread availability in Australia.

"As [hyoscine has] been the main drug that's been identified, I think it's likely to be the active ingredient," Professor Allsop said.

"Unfortunately, there are sometimes other substances that aren't always as readily identifiable which may exacerbate the effects of the drug."

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Taking hyoscine hydrobromide with other medicines and herbal supplements - Brand names: Kwells, Joy-Rides, Kwells Kids, Travel Calm, Scopoderm

Cautions with other medicines.

Hyoscine hydrobromide can be affected by some medicines and affect the way other medicines work. Taking it with other medicines can also increase your risk of side effects.

Do not take hyoscine hydrobromide if you're taking medicines such as domperidone or metoclopramide , which are used to increase the movement of food through your gut. Taking these with hyoscine hydrobromide can stop it working properly.

Tell your pharmacist or doctor before taking hyoscine hydrobromide if you're taking any of these medicines:

• amantadine, a medicine for Parkinson's disease
• quinidine or disopyramide, heart medicines
• allergy medicines, such as antihistamines
• some medicines for depression, such as amitriptyline
• some inhaled asthma medicines, including ipratropium or tiotropium
• medicines for mental health problems, such as chlorpromazine or clozapine

Mixing hyoscine hydrobromide with herbal remedies and supplements

There might be a problem taking some herbal remedies and supplements alongside hyoscine hydrobromide, especially ones that cause side effects such as sleepiness, a dry mouth or making it difficult to pee.

Ask a pharmacist for advice.

There's not enough information to say whether other complementary medicines, herbal remedies and supplements are safe to take with hyoscine hydrobromide. They're not tested in the same way as pharmacy and prescription medicines. They're generally not tested for the effect they have on other medicines.

Important: Medicine safety

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

Page last reviewed: 5 October 2022 Next review due: 5 October 2025

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Travacalm Travel Sickness Original 10 Tablets

Description:

Use TravaCalm Original Tablets for the prevention of travel sickness.

The triple active formula is specially formulated with two ingredients to help prevent travel sickness, as well as caffeine to help counteract drowsiness. TravaCalm contains a combination of dimenhydrinate, hyoscine hydrobromide and caffeine. Dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine that has an anti-vomiting effect. Hyoscine hydrobromide is an anticholinergic drug. Anticholinergics have a wide variety of actions and are well known for their use in the prevention of travel sickness. Dimenhydrinate is longer acting than hyoscine hydrobromide. Both ingredients may cause drowsiness. The addition of caffeine helps to counteract the drowsiness’s, itchy nose & runny nose.

TravaCalm Original is for the prevention of travel sickness when travelling by car, boat, ship or plane. 

Suitable for children aged 4 years and over.

Ingredients:

Each tablet contains: Dimenhydrate 50mg, Hyoscine hydrobromide 200 mcg, Caffeine 20mg Acacia, Hydrogenated vegetable oil, Lactose monohydrate, Magnesium stearate, Wheat starch

Usage Directions:

Take 30 minutes before departure.

Adults: 1 or 2 tablets. Repeat four to six hourly if necessary (do not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours).

Children: Not recommended for children under 4 years of age. 4 to 7 years take half a tablet. 8 to 13 years take one tablet. Repeat six to eight hourly if necessary (do not exceed three doses in 24 hours).

Store in a cool dry environment.

Store below 30°C Protect from light and moisture

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare professional. Keep out of reach of children.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before use, if you are pregnant or likely to become pregnant.

While using this product, it may cause drowsiness if affected do not drive a vehicle or operate heavy machinery.

Avoid alcohol. Contains lactose.

Delivery Charges

FREE standard shipping on orders $80+ (save $6.95).

FREE express shipping* on orders $119+ (save $9.95)

Ordering a prescription item? You’ll automatically receive free standard shipping, too.** How good!

• Same day delivery is offered for just $5 for orders $119 or more. For orders under $119, same day delivery costs $10.95.  

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• Healthylife cold-chain items: $9.95
• Healthylife Pharmacy cold-chain items: $15.00
• If your order has cold-chain items from both Healthylife and Healthylife Pharmacy, the fee is $9.95.

*** Certain items and areas may be eligible for Same Day Delivery, and if selected will carry a $10.90 delivery fee

See shipping & returns policy for more details. 

How Do Returns & Refunds Work?

All products you buy from the Healthylife website are covered by the Healthylife  Returns Policy .

Please read our full  Returns Policy  to find out how to return a product that is faulty or if you have changed your mind.  

How We Handle Them:

Change of mind.

If you've had a change of mind about an item you have ordered, we'll need to receive it back to us unopened and unused, in the original packaging.

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If the item you have received is faulty, please contact us with a detailed description of the product fault, alongside a photo if possible.

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• In the rare instance you've had an allergic reaction to a product, please discontinue use of the product immediately. We may reach out for further information on the reaction.

Allergy returns must be less than 20% used upon arrival back to us.

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