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Caregiver instructions

Scopolamine Topical Gel Caregiver Instructions

These instructions are for compounded scopolamine gel applied to the skin, prescribed in palliative and comfort-focused care to reduce respiratory secretions (moist, noisy breathing) and drooling when swallowing medication is no longer practical. Available by prescription only.

Protect your own skin

The gel is designed to pass through skin. Apply with a gloved finger or wash your hands immediately — otherwise you absorb a dose too.

Follow the interval

Doses are usually spaced several hours apart, as written on the label. Do not apply early because symptoms return — call the care team instead.

It treats comfort, not breathing

The gel reduces secretions that cause noisy breathing. It does not treat shortness of breath itself — report new or worsening distress to the care team.

How to Apply

  1. 1Put on a disposable glove, or plan to wash your hands immediately after — the gel absorbs through any skin it touches, including yours.
  2. 2Measure the dose from the syringe exactly as the label says (0.1 mL of gel contains 0.25 mg of scopolamine).
  3. 3Apply the gel to the inside of the wrist and rub it in gently until it disappears.
  4. 4Switch wrists with each dose so one area of skin is not used over and over.
  5. 5Remove the glove or wash your hands right away.

What to Expect

  • Less moist, noisy breathing and less drooling — this is the goal of the medication.
  • A dry mouth. Moistening swabs or small sips (if swallowing is safe) can help comfort.
  • Drowsiness is common and often acceptable in comfort-focused care; mention it to the care team if it seems excessive.
  • Blurred vision or a faster heartbeat can occur at higher doses — tell the care team.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from heat and light, out of reach of children and pets. Check the beyond-use date on the pharmacy label, and return unused syringes to the pharmacy for disposal when they are no longer needed.

When to Call the Pharmacy

  • Secretions are not settling at the prescribed dose and interval — the dose may need adjusting by the prescriber.
  • You are unsure how to measure the dose from the syringe.
  • A different caregiver is taking over and needs a walkthrough.
  • You are running low — this gel is prepared to order, so plan ahead, especially before weekends.