Kwells (Hyoscine hydrobromide)

Description

Kwells (Hyoscine hydrobromide) is an anticholinergic medicine used to prevent and treat motion sickness. It works by blocking nerve signals in the inner ear and brain that control vomiting and nausea. Kwells is typically recommended for individuals who experience motion sickness during travel and are prone to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

Directions

The standard dosage of Kwells varies depending on the age of the individual. The usual recommended dosage of Kwells in adults is one 300 mcg tablet every six hours as needed, not to exceed three tablets in 24 hours. For children, the usual 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 tablet should be taken 30 minutes before travel to allow the medication to take effect. If necessary, the tablet can also be taken during the journey if symptoms start to appear. Follow the directions provided with the medication, as well as any instructions given by a healthcare professional.

Ingredients

Kwells tablets contain the active ingredient Hyoscine hydrobromide. These tablets may also contain inactive ingredients that serve as excipients to improve the tablet's stability and efficacy. Consult the product's leaflet for a complete list of ingredients and to ensure there are no known allergies or interactions with other medications.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• You have a history of allergy to Hyoscine hydrobromide or any of the other ingredients in Kwells
• You have glaucoma (an eye condition that causes increased pressure within the eyeball)
• You have a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract
• You have severe muscle weakness (myasthenia gravis)
• You have difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland

Cautions

• Before taking Kwells, inform your healthcare provider about:
• Any medications you currently take, especially antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antihistamines
• Any existing medical conditions, like glaucoma, kidney problems, or bowel obstruction
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning either, as Kwells may pose risks to the unborn child or the nursing infant
• Before beginning Kwells, those who are elderly or already have medical conditions, including urinary retention, heart, digestive, liver, kidney, or CNS disorders like seizures, should consult a medical professional.
• Those with ulcerative colitis should use Kwells cautiously as it may lead to complications in the digestive tract.
• Individuals with Down's syndrome may need extra caution when thinking about Kwells.
• If you often have diarrhea, consult your medical professional before using Kwells.
• There's an increased risk of hyperthermia, particularly in hot conditions due to reduced sweating. Be cautious if you have a fever or are in hot environments.
• It's best to avoid mixing Kwells with drugs that have anticholinergic effects like amantadine, some antihistamines, phenothiazine antipsychotics, and certain antidepressants.
• Consuming Kwells alongside alcohol or CNS depressants might increase sedative side effects.
• Kwells may influence how other drugs are absorbed due to its impact on gastric movements.
• The effectiveness of sublingual nitrate tablets may be reduced due to the dry mouth effects of Kwells.
• Kwells might cause drowsiness. If you experience drowsiness, avoid tasks like driving or operating heavy equipment.

Always consult your medical professional to weigh the risks and advantages before starting any medication.

Side Effects

Kwells may cause certain side effects. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, and decreased sweating. Other side effects may include hallucinations, confusion, and restlessness.

In some cases, Kwells can cause more serious side effects, such as seizures and allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, coughing, swelling, or trouble breathing. If you experience other serious side effects, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

References:

1. Kwells (Hyoscine hydrobromide) Summary of Product Characteristics. Northamptonshire, UK: Dexcel Pharma Ltd; 2020.
2. Kwells (Hyoscine hydrobromide) Patient Information Leaflet. Northamptonshire, UK: Dexcel Pharma Ltd; 2022.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....