How long before my surgery should I apply the Scopolamine Patch?

In my practice, we have the patients put the patch on the night before surgery.  The patch works for about 72 hours.  If you put it on the night before surgery, you will remember to do it.  If you plan to put it on just before surgery, you may forget in all the excitement of the pre-operative period. 

Please give my congratulations to your plastic surgeon for being aware enough to know that Scopolamine patches significantly decrease the chance of post-operative nausea. 

The patch lasts up to 3 days, therefore you can put it on as early as the night before which is convenient for most patients or the morning of surgery at least 3 to 4 hours prior to surgery.

Thank you for your question.

Go ahead put it on in the morning after showering.  A few hours this way or that way will not make a difference.  This patch will last 3 days.

Best wishes.

It is usually recommended to place your patch on before your surgery.  The effects of the transdermal patch last about 2-3 days.  Best of luck with your surgery.

Dr. Basu

Houston, TX

Thanks for your question.  I typically tell my patients to place a patch at least a few hours prior to surgery.  You want to make sure the medication is in your system prior to receiving any anesthetic.  Hope that helps.

Thank you for the question. It really should make no difference in your case when you put on the patch. It will remain active for 72 hours which should very well cover you for your surgery and the initial post operative period.

Good luck.

The usual recommendation is for 3 hours before the schedule start of surgery. Too soon would not bew an issue--they last for about 3 days. Best wishes.