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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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How To Help Toddlers With Car Sickness

We independently research our recommended products. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our links .

Looking for a cure to toddlers with car sickness ? We feel your pain!

And we’ve cleaned the seats to prove it… 🤢

Motion sickness symptoms vary from person to person, but when your child is unable to communicate their symptoms, dealing with it can become a nightmare. Whether your planned car trip takes twenty minutes or four hours, no parent wants their toddler to start feeling ill on the journey. 

A few roadblocks commonly stand between parents and treating their toddlers with carsickness; in this guide, we’ll explore how to recognise the symptoms, treat, and prevent motion sickness. 

Non-prescription medication

How long does motion sickness last in toddlers, final thoughts, common causes of motion sickness.

When you’re sitting in a car, your body is stationary. You’re not doing any of the work to move, but your eyes are receiving entirely different signals — according to your eyes and inner ear, you’re moving quickly. Motion sickness occurs because of the confusion that happens in your brain and the mixed signals it is trying to interpret. 

The most important body part involved in all of this is the inner ear. When your inner ear is trying to understand how to balance you, the movement you are experiencing without actually moving causes the wires to get crossed in your brain and can lead to that queasy feeling. 

What Are The Signs of Toddlers With Car Sickness?

If you’ve taken your young child on a plane ride or a long car journey , they might have experienced motion sickness.

Common symptoms include:

• Upset stomach and queasiness

Your toddler might not be able to explain how they are feeling. They’re likely to show it by crying, becoming restless, and they might turn pale. They could also start to yawn if they’re feeling fatigued.

And, of course, stay alert for any vomiting in the back seat.

How to Prevent Car Sickness in Toddlers

If your toddler suffers from motion sickness during car trips, be prepared by following these top tips.

Be aware of what they eat

If your child ever vomits or has an upset stomach when travelling, take care with what you feed them before and during the journey.

A small, light snack such as plain crackers and a sip of water is perfect. Avoid anything too heavy or greasy.

We’ve all been tempted to stuff our toddlers with sweet treats to keep them amused on a long journey, but all that sugar can easily trigger a vomiting episode if they’re suddenly accosted with motion sicknesses.

Check the temperature & provide air ventilation

One of the easiest ways to relieve the symptoms of motion sickness is to provide fresh air. Open the windows or use the air blowers in the car as soon as your toddler starts to display signs of motion sickness.

Alternatively, use a cool cloth to bring their temperature down if they’re feeling hot. Dress your child for the weather too — layers of light clothing are best for travelling.

Reduce sensory input

Looking at a fixed point outside the vehicle can often help. Encourage your youngster to look out of the window rather than playing with toys or looking at a book.

It’s quite common for children to start to feel sick when they are watching a video or reading during travel, and the symptoms are often eased when they stop.

Seat placement

Related to the above, if possible, it’s a good idea to let travel sick toddlers sit in the middle seat, so they have a clear view out of the window ahead.

If your toddler is sitting in a rear-facing seat, it might be time to consider turning their seat around if they’re badly afflicted with car sickness. Facing against the direction of travel can sometimes make motion sickness symptoms worse.

Remember, toddlers should always travel in the back of the car for safety.

Offer distractions

If your child starts feeling sick, distracting them by offering to play games like I-Spy or playing music might be enough to help. It will take their mind off their feelings of queasiness (and make the journey more fun, too!).

Stop regularly

Break up a long car trip with frequent breaks to allow your toddler the chance to get some fresh air and stretch their legs. This will help reduce boredom too — a win-win!

Travel bands

Acupressure bands are popular among many parents, although it’s important to note that they have not been proven to work. However, there’s no harm in trying them if you have a youngster who is frequently affected by motion sickness. Sometimes the placebo effect is enough to take the edge off!

Hyoscine is available to toddlers aged 2 years and above, and is thought to be highly effective. Consult with your GP or pharmacist if you are unsure about the suitability of certain medications.

It’s worth trying the above options first, and consider medication as a last resort.

Toddler Car Sickness FAQs

What can you give a 2-year-old for motion sickness.

There are medications suitable for 2-year-olds suffering from travel sickness – hyoscine and dramamine are popular medicated options, whereas acupressure bands and ginger are great non-medicinal alternatives to try.

What can I give my 1-year-old for car sickness?

There aren’t any medications suitable for this age group, but plenty of the suggestions above can help. Try to avoid giving your baby a big feed shortly before car or plane rides. Instead, give them a few sips to prevent dehydration and plan bigger feeds for earlier or later in the day.

Is it normal for toddlers to get car sick?

It’s more common for slightly older children to suffer from travel sickness — it’s especially common in those aged 6-12. However, it can and does affect toddlers and even babies.

Thankfully, motion sickness symptoms ease off quickly once the journey has ended. Expect your child to be back to their usual happy self within a couple of hours.

Motion sickness can be stressful for both parents and toddlers and can spoil a holiday before you even arrive.

Thankfully, it’s quite easy to prevent with or without medication. Something as simple as opening the windows and taking away toys and games can often be enough to ease the symptoms of car sickness and ensure the family has an enjoyable journey!

AUTHOR PROFILE

Sarah Blackwell

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Kwells Travel Health Care

• Travel Sickness (2)
• Travel Medicines (1)
• Childrens Medicines (1)
• Stomach & Bowel Medicines (2)
• Pharmacy Medicines (2)
• Children's Medicine (1)
• Summer Wellness (2)
• Summer Shop (2)

Kwells medicines are indicated to prevent travel sickness. Kwells can be used by both kids (above 4 years) and adults.

Kwells is used to prevent all types of Travel Sickness (car, coach, plane, train and ship) and is suitable for use in adults and children over the age of 4 years, (dose adjustments are needed for children between 4-12 yrs of age).

  Kwells travel sickness prevention contains the active ingredient Hyoscine Hydrobromide (0.3mg) and does not contain caffeine (a stimulant) or Dimenhydrinate (may cause drowsiness), which are found in other travel sickness treatments.

  Kwells is the No.1 selling treatment for travel sickness prevention.

  Kwells should be taken at least 30 minutes before commencing your journey as travel sickness is more easily prevented than treated - once vomiting occurs it is almost impossible for oral medication to be absorbed into the body.   

FAQ’s Q: Are there preservatives in Kwells? A: There are no preservatives present in Kwells.   Q: What active ingredients are in Kwells? A: The active ingredient is Hyoscine hydrobromide. Kwells does not contain caffeine or dimenhydrinate.   Q: I get nervous prior to flying and feel airsick when the plane is flying. What can I do? A: The best solution is to take travel sickness prevention 30 minutes prior to flying and when checking ask to be seated over a wing. When on the plane also open the air vent to allow fresh air to flow over your face.  

Q: When traveling by car the kids frequently become air sick. What can I do? A: The best solution is to treat them with travel sickness prevention 30 mins prior to the journey. Kwells can be used for children 4 years and up (refer to pack for dosage instructions). In addition ensure they have eaten 2-3 hours before travelling and drink water during the journey.  When driving they should be safely elevated to allow them to see where they are going.

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Does my baby have travel sickness?

Children younger than two years old are rarely travel sick, but if your baby is often unhappy when travelling, he may have motion sickness.

• Travel sickness usually starts with a tummy ache, so if your baby suddenly seems upset and uncomfortable, this could be the reason.
• Nausea can cause more saliva to be produced, so your baby may start to dribble more than usual.
• Your baby may feel hot but look pale, and then actually be sick .

Strong smells or bendy roads can cause travel sickness symptoms too. Your baby may feel worse if he’s moving his head a lot, or looking at a nearby object such as his car seat or mobile .

• Plan your journey for times your baby may fall asleep. Travel sickness is less likely to happen when he’s sleeping.
• You could put your baby to bed before you depart, and then transfer him into his car seat without (hopefully) waking him up. Once the journey has started and your baby begins to feel ill, he is less likely to go to sleep.
• Try not to give your baby a full feed just before travelling.
• If your little one vomits , give him sips of breastmilk or formula milk, or cooled boiled water. This will prevent him becoming dehydrated . If he vomits a lot, you may want to give him an oral rehydration solution, which you can buy from your pharmacy.
• Keep the car cool and don’t overdress your baby . A little battery fan can be useful to keep him cool, but don’t let him get cold.
• Don’t try to distract your baby with toys or books as these can make travel sickness symptoms worse.
• Put a sun shade on the car window to protect him from the sun and to help him look forward.
• Keep the car well ventilated and free of any strong smells from food or perfume. Your little one may find fresh air from an open window more refreshing than air conditioning.
• Don’t allow anyone to smoke in the car with your baby. It's against the law, even if you have the windows open, and may make him feel even more queasy.
• Make sure that your baby’s head is well-supported in his car seat .
• Playing familiar music or singing nursery rhymes may distract him from feeling ill.
• Put a towel over your baby’s front if you think he may be sick. It’s easier to remove than clothing.
• If you think that your baby is going to be sick on the journey then it’s also a good idea to cover the car seat with a towel before putting your baby into it. This will protect the seat and ensure that your little one won’t have to sit in a soiled seat if you can’t clean it up during the journey.

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Nausea and labyrinth disorders

Drug treatment.

Antiemetics are generally only prescribed when the cause of vomiting is known because otherwise, they may delay diagnosis, particularly in children. If antiemetic drug treatment is indicated, the drug is chosen according to the aetiology of vomiting.

Antihistamines (e.g. cinnarizine , cyclizine , promethazine hydrochloride , promethazine teoclate ) are effective against nausea and vomiting resulting from many underlying conditions. The duration of action and incidence of adverse effects, such as drowsiness and antimuscarinic effects, differ between antihistamines.

The phenothiazines (e.g. chlorpromazine hydrochloride , prochlorperazine , trifluoperazine ) are dopamine antagonists and act centrally by blocking the chemoreceptor trigger zone. Severe dystonic reactions sometimes occur with phenothiazines, especially in children. Prochlorperazine is less sedating and available as a buccal tablet for children aged 12 years and over, which can be useful in patients with persistent vomiting or with severe nausea.

Other antipsychotic drugs including haloperidol [unlicensed use] and levomepromazine are used for the relief of nausea and vomiting in palliative care. A Strength of recommendation: High For information on the use of antiemetics in palliative care, see Prescribing in palliative care .

Metoclopramide hydrochloride is an effective antiemetic and its activity closely resembles that of the phenothiazines. Metoclopramide hydrochloride also acts directly on the gastric smooth muscle stimulating gastric emptying and it may be superior to the phenothiazines for emesis associated with gastro-intestinal and biliary disease. It is licensed for use in children only as a second-line option for the prevention of delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, and the treatment of established postoperative nausea and vomiting. There is an increased risk of neurological side-effects in children.

Domperidone acts at the chemoreceptor trigger zone. It has the advantage over metoclopramide hydrochloride and the phenothiazines of being less likely to cause central effects, such as sedation and dystonic reactions, because it does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier.

The 5HT 3 -receptor antagonists, granisetron and ondansetron , are used in the management of nausea and vomiting in children receiving cytotoxics. A Strength of recommendation: High

Dexamethasone has antiemetic effects and is used in the management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. A Strength of recommendation: High

The neurokinin 1-receptor antagonist, aprepitant , is used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. It is usually given in combination with a 5HT 3 -receptor antagonist (with or without a corticosteroid). A Strength of recommendation: High For further information on the prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, see Cytotoxic drugs .

Nabilone is a synthetic cannabinoid with antiemetic properties. There is limited evidence for nabilone use in children for nausea and vomiting caused by cytotoxic chemotherapy unresponsive to conventional antiemetics.

Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy is common and will usually resolve spontaneously within 16 to 20 weeks. For pregnant females who have nausea and vomiting, offer appropriate self-care advice (such as rest, oral hydration and dietary changes), and inform them about other available support (e.g. self-help information and support groups) and when to seek urgent medical advice. Take into consideration that a number of interventions may have already been tried. Antiemetics should be considered for females with persistent symptoms where self-care measures have been ineffective. If a non-pharmacological option is preferred, ginger may be helpful for mild to moderate nausea. A Strength of recommendation: High

For females who choose pharmacological treatment, offer an antiemetic considering the advantages and disadvantages of each drug, as well as patient preference, and their experience with treatments in previous pregnancies. Although few drug options are specifically licensed for nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, their use is established practice. Antiemetic options include: cyclizine , prochlorperazine , promethazine hydrochloride , promethazine teoclate , and ondansetron . For further information on antiemetic options, see NICE guideline: Antenatal care (available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng201 ). Assess response to treatment after 24 hours; if the response is inadequate, switch to an antiemetic from a different therapeutic class. Reassess after 24 hours and if symptoms have not settled, specialist opinion should be sought. For females who have moderate to severe nausea and vomiting, consider intravenous fluids and adjunctive treatment with acupressure. A Strength of recommendation: High

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a more serious condition, which requires regular antiemetic therapy, intravenous fluid and electrolyte replacement, and sometimes nutritional support. For females with severe or persistent hyperemesis gravidarum, antiemetics given by the parenteral or rectal routes may be more suitable than the oral route. Supplementation with thiamine must be considered in order to reduce the risk of Wernicke’s encephalopathy. A Strength of recommendation: High

Postoperative nausea and vomiting

The incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting depends on many factors including the anaesthetic used, and the type and duration of surgery. Other risk factors include post-pubertal female sex, over 3 years of age, a history or family history of postoperative nausea and vomiting or motion sickness, and postoperative use of long-acting opioids. Therapy to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting should be based on the assessed risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting in each patient. A combination of antiemetic drugs that have different mechanisms of action is often indicated in those at moderate and high risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting. When a prophylactic antiemetic drug has failed, postoperative nausea and vomiting should be treated with an antiemetic drug from a different therapeutic class. A Strength of recommendation: High

Drugs used include 5HT 3 -receptor antagonists (e.g. ondansetron ), dexamethasone, and droperidol . A Strength of recommendation: High Cyclizine is licensed for the prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting caused by opioids and general anaesthetics. Prochlorperazine is licensed for the prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting.

Opioid-induced nausea and vomiting

Expert sources advise that cyclizine , ondansetron, and prochlorperazine are used to relieve opioid-induced nausea and vomiting; ondansetron has the advantage of not producing sedation.

Motion sickness

Antiemetics should be given to prevent motion sickness rather than after nausea or vomiting develop. Hyoscine hydrobromide is licensed to prevent motion sickness symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and vertigo. For children aged 10 years and over, a transdermal hyoscine patch provides prolonged activity but it needs to be applied several hours before travelling. Antihistamine drugs may also be effective; the less sedating antihistamines include cinnarizine and cyclizine , and the more sedating antihistamines include promethazine hydrochloride and promethazine teoclate . Domperidone, metoclopramide hydrochloride, 5HT 3 -receptor antagonists, and the phenothiazines (except promethazine—an antihistamine phenothiazine) are ineffective in motion sickness.

Nausea and vomiting associated with migraine

For information on the use of antiemetics in migraine attacks, see Migraine .

Related drugs

• Chlorpromazine hydrochloride
• Cinnarizine
• Domperidone
• Granisetron
• Haloperidol
• Hyoscine hydrobromide
• Levomepromazine
• Metoclopramide hydrochloride
• Ondansetron
• Prochlorperazine
• Promethazine hydrochloride
• Promethazine teoclate
• Trifluoperazine

Related treatment summaries

• Cytotoxic drugs

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Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

• General Travel Health Advice

Advice for Child Travellers

Vaccinations, food and water hygiene, accident prevention, medical services.

Travelling with children requires practical consideration and careful planning. It is advisable to consult a travel health practitioner at least 6-8 weeks in advance of departure. The risks to health vary and many factors need to be taken into account such as destination, length of stay, planned activities, age and the general health of your child.

Vaccinations may be advisable for some destinations. The age of your child often determines which vaccines they may be able to receive and should have already received as per the UK Vaccination Schedule . Parents should be aware that some children may be too young to receive the vaccinations recommended for their chosen destination. Your health care practitioner can discuss additional preventative measures to reduce the chance of disease transmission in these circumstances, however you may be advised to change your travel plans.

The timing of vaccinations is important, some vaccines may offer disease protection within two weeks, whereas others may require over a month. Some vaccine schedules require two or more doses given over weeks or months before adequate protection is obtained.

Some vaccines are available free on the NHS, however, there may be a charge for some recommended vaccines. This should be taken into consideration when planning and budgeting for travel.

Children are at particular risk of severe and fatal malaria; parents are therefore advised to avoid taking infants and children to malarious areas. If travel is unavoidable it is imperative that infants and children are well protected against mosquito bites and receive appropriate chemoprophylaxis (antimalarials) .

A) Awareness of Risk

Malaria is now predominantly a disease affecting Africa, South America, Southeast Asia, the Indian sub-continent and less so in Central America and the Middle East:

• individual country pages should be checked to determine the risk at the destination
• for further information see the   malaria advice pages.

B) Mosquito Bite Prevention

• Parents and children must be aware of the risk and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites , including the use of repellents, nets and suitable clothing.

C) Chemoprophylaxis (antimalarials)

It is important to discuss antimalarial suitability with a qualified doctor, nurse or pharmacist:

• the choice of antimalarial is determined by the destination, age and weight of the child
• parents must supervise their child's antimalarial consumption and be careful not to exceed the recommended dose, overdosing antimalarials can be particularly toxic for children
• it is preferable to avoid crushing or breaking tablets, however, it may be necessary to crush some tablets in order to administer the correct dose. Qualified pharmacists should be able to offer further advice; tablet cutters can be purchased to help facilitate correct dosage
• infants and young children may resist taking medications, mixing tablets with jam, honey, chocolate spread or similar foods may make administration easier
• no antimalarial is 100% effective and should always be used in combination with mosquito bite avoidance

D) Diagnosis and Treatment

• Prompt diagnosis and treatment of malaria is essential and the importance of this should be stressed to all parents visiting malarious regions. Fever, occurring at least 7 days after exposure, is the most common symptom of malaria, but infection can develop even up to one year later.
• Symptoms in young children may be difficult to determine.  Parents must be aware that any child returning from a malarious zone who seems ‘off colour’ or just ‘not their normal self’ should be screened for malaria promptly.

Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal (particularly dogs, cats, monkeys and bats) via a bite, scratch or lick of mucous membranes or broken skin. There is no specific treatment available for rabies once symptoms develop and those that develop symptoms will die.

Children can be more likely than adults to be exposed to rabies. Natural curiosity and exploration may entice them to approach animals; fear of being chastised may make them conceal an exposure.

• It is important that children are aware of the need to avoid animal contact during travel and equally the importance of reporting any exposure that does occur.

Pre-travel rabies vaccination should be considered for children travelling to countries that are considered high risk for rabies. Please see the Rabies advice page for further information.

Children, especially young children may be more likely to be exposed to food and water borne illness during travel due to their natural exploratory nature and hand to mouth habits.

Risk can be reduced by frequent hand washing (or use of alcohol based hand cleansing gel when hand washing is not an option).  Children should eat freshly cooked, hot food when possible and avoid raw food that cannot be peeled or cooked and unpasteurised dairy products.

Water for drinking, making up formula milk, diluting drinks and cleaning teeth should be bottled or boiled; see the Breastfeeding and Bottle-feeding advice page for further information.

Children and infants should be discouraged from drinking shower, bath or swimming pool water. Parents of toddlers may decide to take pre-packaged food with them.

Children suffering diarrhoeal illnesses can become dehydrated quickly, rehydration is a priority:

• clear fluids such as diluted fruit juices or oral rehydration solutions  should be drunk liberally
• all rehydrating drinks must be prepared with safe water
• children with severe or blood/mucous stained diarrhoea, high fever or severe abdominal pain should receive medical attention immediately

Babies and children are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and over exposure to the sun can increase their risk of skin cancer later in life. Sunburn may also cause considerable pain and discomfort in the short term.

The safest way to protect children from sunburn is to use a combination of shade, clothing and sunscreen.

• use a sunscreen of at least SPF 15 which also has high UVA protection
• ensure sunscreens are applied generously to ALL sun exposed areas. Sunscreen should be applied 20 - 30 minutes before sun exposure
• remember that showering, swimming and sweating may remove sunscreen; ensure frequent application and consider water resistant sunscreens
• cover children up using clothing such as wide brimmed hat and long sleeved tops, closed weaved fabrics may offer better sun protection
• protect eyes from sun exposure, use sunglasses with a CE mark, UV400 label or that offer 100% UV protection
• seek shelter; avoid sun exposure between 11am and 3pm when sun is typically stronger

See the Sun Exposure advice page for further information.

Local health and safety regulations vary between countries and may not be at the same standard as parents are used to in the UK.  Parents must be aware of this and make a judgement about the safety of their child using facilities abroad.

Equipment for young children such as high chairs, microwaves for heating food and changing stations  may not be available at many destinations. Parents should be advised to thoroughly research the facilities available prior to travel.

Road rules vary country to country and age appropriate child seats may not be available at the destination.  Parents should check this prior to travel and consider taking their own child car seats if necessary.

• See the Accident Prevention advice page for further information.

Many countries do not provide the same access to medical facilities and treatments as the UK. Some countries may have reciprocal health care agreements with UK, see individual country pages for details.

All child travellers should be included in travel insurance policies, medical emergencies including repatriation should be included in the policy.

• See the  travel insurance advice page for further details.

Medical Assistance

Parents should be aware of what to do if their child becomes ill whilst abroad including how to access emergency medical treatment. Parents should try and identify health care facilities prior to departure. 

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) provides details of the nearest British Embassy or Consulate that may be able to help locate health care facilities at the destination. Neither the FCDO or Embassy will pay for medical care even in an emergency.

• The International Society of Travel Medicine has a Global Travel Clinic Locator available on their website.
• Addresses for local medical services might also be available from larger hotels and from tour company representatives.

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• Disease Prevention Advice

Dramamine® For Kids

Dramamine® for Kids is the only medicated motion sickness relief product formulated just for children ages 2-12 from the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Brand.

● Treats symptoms on the spot ● Prevents nausea, dizziness, vomiting & queasiness ● Safe, precise dose in a fun, chewable grape flavor ● Convenient travel case

Available in an 8-count box.

To prevent motion sickness, the first dose should be taken 1/2 to 1 hour before starting activity.

To prevent or treat motion sickness, see below:

• Children 2 to under 6 years: give ½ to 1 chewable tablet every 6-8 hours; do not give more than 3 chewable tablets in 24 hours, or as directed by a doctor
• Children 6 to under 12 years: give 1 to 2 chewable tablets every 6-8 hours; do not give more than 6 chewable tablets in 24 hours, or as directed by a doctor

Other information

• Phenylketonurics: contains phenylalanine 0.375 mg per tablet
• Store at room temperature 20°-25°C (68°-77°F)

Ingredients

Active Ingredient (in each tablet)

Ingredient: Dimenhydrinate 25mg Purpose: Antiemetic     

Inactive Ingredients Aspartame, citric acid, flavor, magnesium stearate, methacrylic acide copolymer, sorbitol

Do not use  for children under 2 years of age unless directed by a doctor

Ask a doctor before use if the child has:

• A breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis

Ask a doctor or a pharmacist before use if the child is  taking sedatives or tranquilizers.

When using this product:

• Marked drowsiness may occur
• Avoid alcoholic drinks
• Alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness
• Be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery

If pregnant or breast-feeding,  ask a doctor before use.

Keep out of reach of children.  In case of accidental overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away.

Comments, Questions or Concerns Call 1-800-382-7219 weekdays or visit us on Facebook

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Dramamine® All Day Less Drowsy

Dramamine® Original Formula

Dramamine® Non-Drowsy

Who can and cannot take hyoscine hydrobromide - Brand names: Kwells, Joy-Rides, Kwells Kids, Travel Calm, Scopoderm

Who can take hyoscine hydrobromide.

Hyoscine hydrobromide travel sickness tablets can be taken by most adults and children from the age of 3 years.

Patches for travel sickness can be used by most adults and children from the age of 10 years.

Who may not be able to take hyoscine hydrobromide

Hyoscine hydrobromide is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell a pharmacist or doctor before taking it if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to hyoscine hydrobromide or any other medicine
• have an eye problem called primary angle closure glaucoma
• have difficulty peeing or a bowel blockage
• have myasthenia gravis , a condition that causes muscle weakness
• have heart problems, including a very fast heart rate
• have thyroid, kidney or liver problems
• have epilepsy (seizures)
• have digestive problems, such as acid reflux or severe constipation
• have ulcerative colitis
• have a high temperature
• are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, as hyoscine hydrobromide is not recommended in pregnancy

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

Appointments at Mayo Clinic

• Children's health

What causes car sickness in children and how can I prevent it?

Car sickness is a type of motion sickness. Motion sickness occurs when the brain receives conflicting information from the inner ears, eyes, and nerves in the joints and muscles.

Imagine a young child sitting low in the back seat of a car without being able to see out the window — or an older child reading a book in the car. The child's inner ear will sense motion, but his or her eyes and body won't. The result might be an upset stomach, cold sweat, fatigue, loss of appetite or vomiting.

It's not clear why car sickness affects some children more than others. While the problem doesn't seem to affect most infants and toddlers, children ages 2 to 12 are particularly susceptible.

To prevent car sickness in children, you might try the following strategies:

• Reduce sensory input. Encourage your child to look at things outside the car rather than focusing on books, games or screens. If your child naps, traveling during nap time might help.
• Carefully plan pre-trip meals. Don't give your child a large meal immediately before or during car travel. If the trip will be long or your child needs to eat, give him or her a small, bland snack — such as dry crackers and a small drink — before it's time to go.
• Provide air ventilation. Adequate air ventilation might help prevent car sickness.
• Offer distractions. If your child is prone to car sickness, try distracting him or her during car trips by talking, listening to music or singing songs.
• Use medication. If you're planning a car trip, ask your child's doctor about using an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl), to prevent car sickness. Both medications work best if taken about an hour before traveling. Read the product label carefully to determine the correct dose and be prepared for possible side effects, such as drowsiness. Nondrowsy antihistamines don't appear to be effective at treating motion sickness.

If your child starts to develop car sickness, stop the car as soon as possible and let your child get out and walk around or lie on his or her back for a few minutes with closed eyes. Placing a cool cloth on your child's forehead also might help.

If these tips don't help or if your child's car sickness makes travel difficult, talk to your child's doctor about other options.

Jay L. Hoecker, M.D.

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• Concussion in children
• Brunette GW, et al., eds. Motion sickness. In: CDC Yellow Book 2020: Health Information for International Travel. Oxford University Press; 2019. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/travel-by-air-land-sea/motion-sickness. Accessed Feb. 24, 2020.
• Motion sickness. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/injuries-poisoning/motion-sickness/motion-sickness#. Accessed Feb. 24, 2020.
• Priesol AJ. Motion sickness. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 24, 2020.
• Altmann T, et al., eds. Head, neck, and nervous system. In: Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5. 7th ed. Bantam; 2019.

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travel sickness remedies for a 1 year old??

mummy2ashton · 09/08/2006 22:02

my 18 month old gets travel sick. its awful, most of the time when he is travelling in a car we strip him down to just a nappy (if its hot) and put plastic covers on his car seat cos he is sick so much. even if i don't feed him before the journey he pukes bile (sorry tmi). he's really travel sick!!! does anyone have any remedies? we are travelling to devon in 2 weeks which will mean an hour on the plane and about 5 hours in a car. i am dreading it and its obviously hell for ds. would really appreciate any tips or remedies that are suitable for such a young child. ta muchly!

May be stating the obvious but stop travelling by car! My sister and I were just as travel sick as you describe and nothing touched it till Sea-legs or Stugeron (both of which tended to send us off to sleep successfully) started working when we were about 7. We did lots of holidays by train, sometimes sending Dad in the car with the suitcases, sometimes all getting the train together. Meant we didn't often go very far (think Falmouth was the furthest we managed from London), but we did arrive happy, non-smelly and with all our clothes on. How important is it that you go to Devon and not somewhere else? Could you transfer the booking to somewhere that's an easier journey? All the things they recommend for morning sickness - peppermints, ginger, sour things - are worth a try.

I think you should go and see your GP. DS2 gets a bit car sick(no where near as bad as yours) and he takes joy rides before a long journey.The box says not for under 3 without medical advice.Maybe your doctor can prescribe something for him.

Sea legs which are for any type of travel sickness are from age 2. Still not good enough for you. Have you tried the travel wrist bands? They sell them in Boots. Also nibbling ginger biscuits beforehand might help. And try and make him look out of the window. Or travel when he is asleep so maybe evening. Get him to sleep first, then transfer to car seat and go!

My DS sounds like tortoise's - long journeys, particularly in the morning are the trigger. But he is totally controlled by medication and has been since he was 3.

mrs badger, we can't avoid going to devon. thats where dp's family are and we are going to visit them, plus we are going to a friends' baby's christening and dp is godfather so really have to go!

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