From the FDA Drug Label
In 195 adult subjects of different racial origins who participated in clinical efficacy studies at sea or in a controlled motion environment, there was a 75% reduction in the incidence of motion-induced nausea and vomiting. Scopolamine transdermal system was applied from 4 to 16 hours prior to the onset of motion in these studies.
The best prevention of motion sickness (kinetosis) in airplane travel is the use of scopolamine transdermal system, which has been shown to reduce the incidence of motion-induced nausea and vomiting by 75% when applied from 4 to 16 hours prior to the onset of motion 1.
- The application of scopolamine transdermal system before the onset of motion is crucial for its effectiveness.
- It is essential to follow the instructions for application and removal of the transdermal system to ensure its efficacy and safety.
From the Research
To prevent motion sickness on an airplane, the most effective method is to use a scopolamine patch applied behind the ear at least 4 hours before flying, as it has been shown to reduce the incidence and severity of motion sickness by 60-80% 2. This method is supported by the study published in Clinical Pharmacokinetics in 2006, which found that transdermal scopolamine was significantly superior to placebo and oral meclizine in preventing motion sickness 2. Other options include:
- Taking over-the-counter medications like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) 30-60 minutes before takeoff at a dose of 50-100 mg, or meclizine (Bonine) 25-50 mg one hour before flying, with effects lasting about 4-6 hours
- Using natural remedies like ginger supplements (250 mg capsules) taken 30 minutes before flying or ginger candies consumed throughout the flight
- Choosing a seat over the wing where movement is minimal and keeping eyes focused on the horizon or a fixed point
- Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol and heavy meals before flying
- Practicing deep, controlled breathing and focusing on slow inhalations and exhalations to manage symptoms if they begin to develop during the flight It's worth noting that a more recent study published in 2023 found that an osteopathic manipulative treatment may also be effective in preventing motion sickness, but more research is needed to confirm its efficacy 3. Additionally, a study published in 2014 found that scopolamine is a first-line medication for prevention of motion sickness and should be administered transdermally several hours before the anticipated motion exposure 4. However, the study published in 2004 found that meclizine had the best cognitive profile among the drugs tested, with no adverse effect on working memory 5. Overall, the scopolamine patch remains the most effective method for preventing motion sickness on an airplane, due to its high efficacy and long-lasting effects 2.