Description
Kwells (Hyoscine hydrobromide) is a medication used to prevent and control motion sickness. It belongs to a group of medicines called anticholinergics or antimuscarinics. Hyoscine hydrobromide works in the inner ear and the brain to block nerve signals involved in nausea and vomiting. This medicine is commonly used by individuals during travel to help manage symptoms of motion sickness such as nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C17H21NO4 |
License |
US DailyMed |
Bioavailability |
Unknown |
Legal status |
Non Prescription Medications |
Chemical Name |
Hyoscine hydrobromide |
Elimination half-life |
4.5 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
300mcg |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
Kwells |
Protein binding |
Unknown |
PubChem CID |
5184 |
MedlinePlus |
a682509 |
ChEBI |
16794 |
ATC code |
A04AD01 |
DrugBank |
DB00747 |
KEGG |
D02071 |
Routes of administration |
Oral |
Directions
The standard dosage of Kwells in adults is one 300 mcg tablet every six hours if needed. The maximum dosage is three tablets every 24 hours. In children over 10 years old, the dosage is one-half to one tablet every six hours as needed not to exceed one and one-half to three tablets in 24 hours. The first Hyoscine hydrobromide dose should be taken 30 minutes before the start of the journey or at the onset of nausea. Read the information provided with your medicine and consult your healthcare provider for specific dosing instructions.
Ingredients
Kwells tablets contain the active ingredient hyoscine hydrobromide.
Contraindications
Avoid taking Kwells if any of the following apply to your health:
- Allergic to hyoscine hydrobromide or any of the other ingredients in the medication
- Glaucoma or a history of increased eye pressure
- Myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness
- Intestinal obstruction or a history of bowel problems
- Difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate
Cautions
- Before taking Kwells, make sure to inform your doctor about the following:
- Your current medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements
- Any known allergies or sensitivities to hyoscine hydrobromide or other components of the product
- Existing medical conditions, particularly if you have a fever or are prone to hyperthermia
- Elderly individuals and patients already under medical care, especially those at risk of acute urinary retention, with heart, digestive, liver, kidney diseases, or living with CNS disorders like seizures should consult their healthcare provider before starting Kwells.
- If you have ulcerative colitis, Kwells might lead to stomach complications. Proceed with caution.
- Individuals with Down's Syndrome should be particularly cautious while considering Kwells.
- If you experience frequent diarrhea, discuss it with your healthcare provider before taking Kwells.
- There's an increased risk of hyperthermia, especially in high temperatures due to decreased sweating. Be cautious if you have a fever or are exposed to warm climates.
- Avoid combining Kwells with other medications having anticholinergic properties such as amantadine, certain antihistamines, phenothiazine antipsychotics, and tricyclic antidepressants.
- Combining Kwells with MAOIs might increase the risk of side effects because of effects on certain enzymes.
- The sedative effects might increase when taken with alcohol or CNS depressants.
- Kwells can affect how some other medicines work and are absorbed, due to its effects on the digestive system.
- The effects of domperidone and metoclopramide on gastrointestinal activity might be countered.
- Due to dry mouth effects, this medication may reduce the effectiveness of sublingual nitrate tablets.
- The safety during pregnancy is yet to be established. Use, especially during the first trimester, should only be considered if the benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.
- If lactating, be cautious as small amounts might pass into breast milk.
- Kwells may induce drowsiness. If you feel affected, refrain from driving or handling heavy machinery.
Remember to discuss all potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before beginning any medication.
Side Effects
Kwells may cause side effects in some users. Common side effects may include dizziness, sleepiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and decreased sweating. In addition, Kwells may cause confusion, hallucinations, and restlessness in some people.
Some individuals using Kwells may experience more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions and seizures. If you or someone you know has an eye condition called glaucoma, high blood pressure, a fast heart rate, other heart problems, liver, kidney or prostate gland issues, epilepsy, a muscle weakness condition called myasthenia gravis, or Down's syndrome, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Kwells. In case serious side effects occur, seek medical assistance immediately.
References:
- Kwells (Hyoscine hydrobromide) Summary of Product Characteristics. Northamptonshire, UK: Dexcel Pharma Ltd; 2020.
- Kwells (Hyoscine hydrobromide) Patient Information Leaflet. Northamptonshire, UK: Dexcel Pharma Ltd; 2022.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13850