Scopolamine

Molecule structure of scopolamine

Scopolamine, also known as hyoscine, is an alkaloid derived from plants of the nightshade family (Solanaceae), such as henbane (Hyoscyamus niger) and jimsonweed (Datura stramonium). It has a chemical structure similar to other tropane alkaloids like atropine.

Alfa Chemistry offers high-quality scopolamine for research and development purposes.

Product Detail

Product Name	Scopolamine
CAS No.	51-34-3
Catalog	ALKS51343
Molecular Weight	303.35
Molecular Formula	C17H21NO4
Purity	≥ 98%
Appearance	White crystal or powder
Application	Used for content determination, identification, pharmacological experiments, activity screening, etc.
Storage	Refrigerate at 4 °C, seal tightly, and avoid light (valid for 2 years under this condition)

Applications of Scopolamine

Motion Sickness: Scopolamine is widely used to prevent and treat motion sickness. It is often administered via transdermal patches that provide a continuous dose over several days.
Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting: It can be used to prevent nausea and vomiting following surgery, particularly when other antiemetics are ineffective.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Scopolamine is sometimes used to relieve smooth muscle spasms in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and colicky abdominal pain.
Ophthalmology: It can be used to dilate the pupils and paralyze the ciliary muscle, aiding in eye examinations. Anesthesia: Scopolamine is used as a pre-anesthetic medication to reduce salivation and respiratory tract secretions.
Psychiatric Uses: In the past, scopolamine has been explored as a treatment for certain psychiatric conditions due to its effects on the central nervous system. It has been studied for its potential in treating depression and as a possible adjunct in the management of psychosis.
Military and Criminal Use: Scopolamine has been reportedly used as a "truth serum" in interrogations and in criminal contexts to render victims more compliant or incapacitated.

Mechanism of Action

Scopolamine primarily acts as an anticholinergic agent, meaning it blocks the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors. Here's a more detailed look at its mechanism:

Central Nervous System

Scopolamine readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and exerts significant effects on the central nervous system (CNS). It inhibits the action of acetylcholine in the brain, which can lead to sedation, amnesia, and the prevention of nausea and vomiting by acting on the vestibular system and the vomiting center in the brain.

Peripheral Effects

By blocking muscarinic receptors in the peripheral nervous system, scopolamine reduces smooth muscle contractions, decreases bodily secretions (such as saliva, sweat, and mucus), and dilates the pupils.

Vestibular System

Scopolamine is particularly effective in preventing motion sickness because it interferes with the signaling in the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and equilibrium. It is thought to block the transmission of nerve impulses between the vestibular system and the vomiting center in the brain, thereby preventing the nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

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